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A Paige From My Notebook...

It is hard to believe, but the end of summer is already upon us.

August always seems to arrive with a little bit of everything. Families are getting ready for backto-school season, college students are preparing for a new semester, adult learners are looking for ways to grow their skills, wedding planning is in full swing, and many families are thinking seriously about buying a home before the end of the year.

At Strictly Business, we love this time of year because it reminds us how connected our local businesses are to every season of life.

“For

Back-to-school season is more than backpacks, supplies and ﬁrst-day photos. It is a time when families rely on local retailers, healthcare providers, childcare professionals, tutors, restaurants, service businesses and community organizations to help make the transition smooth. It is also a great reminder of how much our local schools, teachers and families contribute to the strength of Lincoln and Omaha.

August is also an important time for colleges, universities, trade schools and adult education programs. Whether someone is starting their first semester, returning to finish a degree, learning a new trade, earning a certification or investing in professional development, education continues to open doors. Lifelong learning strengthens our workforce, supports local employers and helps individuals create new opportunities for themselves and their families.

August is also a beautiful time to plan for your wedding. From venues and ﬂorists to photographers, caterers, salons, jewelers, boutiques, planners and travel professionals, the wedding industry is ﬁlled with local businesses

that help couples and families prepare for some of life’s most meaningful moments.

And for many people, summer is also a time to think about buying a home. Whether someone is a ﬁrst-time buyer, moving into a larger home, downsizing or relocating, the home-buying process brings together Realtors, lenders, title companies, insurance professionals, inspectors, builders, remodelers and many other trusted local experts.

That is what makes local business so important. Behind every major life event, every season and every community tradition, there are local businesses working hard to serve people well.

Strictly Business is proud to help tell those stories.

Through print, online publishing, feature stories, press releases, client spotlights and digital backlinks, we help our clients remain top-of-mind in the communities they care about most.

As we move from summer into fall, I encourage you to keep supporting local businesses. Shop local. Hire local. Refer local. Celebrate local. And when you have a story to share, make sure people hear it.

Thank you to our advertisers, readers and community partners for continuing to trust Strictly Business. We are honored to promote the people and organizations that make Lincoln and Omaha such strong places to live, work and grow.

Here’s to a strong ﬁnish to summer and an exciting start to fall.

Paige Zutavern President

PRODUCTION TEAM:

Art Director: Christy Irvin – ArtDirector@StrictlyBusinessOmaha.com

Editor: Macey Wahl – Editor@StrictlyBusinessOmaha.com

Executive Assistant: Kaitlyn Stara – Ofﬁce@StrictlyBusinessOmaha.com

Copywriters: Haylee Wang, & Joy Lerch

Social Media: Joselyn Miklas

SALES TEAM:

President/Sales: Paige Zutavern – Paige@StrictlyBusinessOmaha.com

Publisher/Founder/Accounting: Shayne Z. – SZutavern@Yahoo.com

Christy Joselyn Haylee Macey Joy Kaitlyn

New Start Cleaning: More Than Cleaning, Creating Opportunities and Raising the Standard

What started as a small cleaning company with a big dream has grown into one of Nebraska’s trusted cleaning service providers. At New Start Cleaning, our mission has always been about more than spotless homes and businesses, it’s about creating opportunities, building lasting relationships, and making a positive impact in the communities we serve.

We are proud to announce an exciting milestone in our journey: New Start Cleaning is now expanding into the Omaha metro area. After years of serving Lincoln with exceptional residential and commercial cleaning services, we’re excited to bring our award-winning team, proven systems and commitment to excellence to homeowners throughout Omaha.

Our services include recurring residential cleaning, deep cleaning, move-in and moveout cleaning, post-construction cleaning, apartment turnovers and customized cleaning solutions designed to meet each client’s unique needs. We deliver consistent, high-quality service with professionalism and care.

Behind every successful clean is an incredible team. At New Start Cleaning, we believe our people are our greatest asset. We are committed to creating career opportunities, investing in leadership development and fostering a workplace culture built on

respect, integrity, teamwork, and excellence. Many of our team members have grown into leadership positions, and we are proud to empower individuals who are passionate about serving others while building meaningful careers.

As a Latina-owned business, community has always been at the heart of everything we do. We believe success is measured not only by business growth but also by the lives we touch. Supporting local organizations, mentoring entrepreneurs and creating opportunities for others remain central to our mission.

As we continue to grow, our commitment remains unchanged: to provide dependable service, exceed expectations, and treat every home and business as if it were our own. We know inviting someone into your space requires trust, and we never take that responsibility lightly.

We are incredibly grateful to our clients, referral partners, and community for being part of this journey. Your support has made our growth possible, and we look forward to building new relationships throughout Omaha while continuing to serve Lincoln with the same passion and dedication that have deﬁned New Start Cleaning from the very beginning.

Kubert Appraisal Group Announces Ofﬁcial Rebranding to OmegaVal

Leading regional commercial real estate appraisal ﬁrm updates name to reﬂect team-driven growth, expanded capabilities, and dynamic market solutions.

Kubert Appraisal Group, one of the region’s largest and most trusted commercial real estate appraisal firms, today announced it has officially adopted the trade name OmegaVal (Omega Valuation Group). The rebranding marks a significant milestone in the company’s evolution from a solo practice into a powerhouse team of valuation experts.

Founded in 2018 as a single-appraiser operation working out of a basement, the ﬁrm has experienced exponential growth over the last eight years. Today, OmegaVal boasts a robust, integrated team of appraisers, analysts, and dedicated support staff capable of navigating the most complex market landscapes.

“This name change represents an important evolution of our company,” said owner, Thomas Kubert. “By 2026, the scope of our company had become much larger than any one person. OmegaVal is a true group effort, and our new name reﬂects the dynamic, team-driven ﬁrm we have built to better serve our clients.”

Same Core Team, Expanded Capabilities

While the name on the door has changed, the ﬁrm’s core mission remains exactly the same. Clients will continue to receive the professional, reliable valuation products they depend on when making critical ﬁnancial decisions.

For OmegaVal’s clients, the transition will be seamless:

• No Operational Changes: Clients will work with the same trusted team members and advisors.

• Uncompromised Quality: The ﬁrm remains dedicated to providing top-tier, quality analysis in complex commercial markets.

• Enhanced Scope: The new brand better encapsulates the ﬁrm’s scaled capacity to handle large-scale and intricate valuation assignments.

“The most important message we want to send to our industry partners is that nothing changes for our clients,” the ﬁrm emphasized. “We are the same company, with the same team members, providing the same high-quality appraisal services—just with a new name that matches the scale of our collective expertise.”

The transition to OmegaVal is effective immediately. The ﬁrm’s digital presence, including its website and communications, will transition to the new branding over the coming weeks.

About OmegaVal: OmegaVal (Omega Valuation Group) is a premier commercial real estate appraisal firm designed to serve clients navigating complex markets. Founded in 2018 the firm has grown into one of the largest appraisal practices in the region. OmegaVal provides reliable, high-quality valuation analysis that clients can depend on when making important financial decisions.

You can contact OmegaVal by reaching Thomas Kubert, Owner OmegaVal at tkubert@kubertappraisal.com, (531) 500-0890, or visiting kubertappraisal.com.

Centris Federal Credit Union Celebrates Gretna Expansion with Ribbon Cutting and Grand Opening Event

Brookestone Meadows Brings Community Together to Celebrate America’s 250th Year Anniversary

Centris Federal Credit Union celebrated the grand opening of its newest branch in Gretna on Wednesday, July 15, with a ribbon-cutting ceremony and grand opening celebration attended by community leaders, Gretna Chamber members, local business leaders and Centris members and employees. More than 250 guests joined the celebration, where they could tour the new branch, meet the Centris team and enjoy an evening of family-friendly food and activities.

“We were thrilled to welcome the community into our new space and share in this exciting milestone together,” said Ann Helm, executive vice president, chief experience ofﬁcer. “Whether it’s supporting a family’s ﬁnancial goals, guiding someone through their next big milestone or helping a business expand, our focus is on building strong relationships and delivering value at every stage.”

The new branch, located at 11013 S. 192nd Avenue, offers convenient access to a wide range of services, including:

• Personal banking, loans and everyday ﬁnancial services

• Business banking, lending and treasury management solutions

• Competitive rates

• Local expertise with a personalized, member-ﬁrst approach

Lobby hours are Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. and Saturday from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Drive-thru service is available Monday through Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. and Saturday from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., with a drive-up ATM accessible 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

For more information, visit centrisfcu.org.

ARSolutionsAnnouncesStrategicPartnership with Hauge

Brookestone Meadows celebrated America’s 250th anniversary with a week full of patriotic events for our community members! Festivities included red, white and blue crafts, Star-Spangled BINGO, an all-American cookout, Historic Jeopardy, Uncle Sam’s Trivia and wrapped up with a festive community parade.

Each year, Brookestone Meadows is proud to serve as the grand ﬁ nale destination for the Paciﬁ c Woods Annual Neighborhood Independence Day Parade.

The celebration ends with cool treats and plenty of smiling faces as neighbors of all ages show off their decorated bikes, scooters, wagons and even their pets! The best part of this tradition is bringing generations together to celebrate our community and our country.

“Throughout the week, our community members shared stories and memories from different chapters of America’s history. Each of them has helped shape our nation in their own unique way through their service, hard work, resilience and sacriﬁces,” said Sydney Yount, Brookstone Meadows public relations coordinator. “As we celebrate 250 years of America, we extend our heartfelt thanks to those who have helped make our country what it is today.”

Brookestone Meadows is a care community offering world-class services for seniors needing short-term rehabilitation or longterm care. They are known for their culture of rehabilitation and improvement of health.

For more information on Brookestone Meadows please visit brookestonemeadows.com or call (402) 289-2696.

Momentum Women’s Summit Debuts This Fall with Sarpy

County Chamber of Commerce

AR Solutions is pleased to announce a strategic partnership with Hauge and Med-Plan Services of Sioux Falls, South Dakota. The new partnership will strengthen service capabilities, expand operational resources, and enhance compliance infrastructure for clients.

The partnership combines the strengths of both organizations while leveraging advanced technology and a more comprehensive collection tool kit to improve recovery performance, increase liquidation rates, and ultimately return more dollars to clients.

“Our goal has always been to provide exceptional service and results for our clients,” said Aaron Newell, Founder and CEO of AR Solutions. “By partnering with Hauge and Med-Plan Services, we are enhancing our offerings while maintaining the personalized service our clients have come to expect.”

For more information about the partnership or any questions, clients are encouraged to contact their AR Solutions representative. You can visit the AR Solutions website at arsolutionsinc.com.

The Sarpy County Chamber of Commerce is proud to introduce the Momentum Women’s Summit, a new event, on October 7, from 7:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., designed to help women build conﬁdence, create meaningful connections and gain practical tools for personal and professional growth. Centered around the theme, “It’s not about ﬁxing yourself. It’s about building momentum,” the summit offers a full day of inspiration, education and networking for women at every stage of their careers and lives.

Attendees will experience inspiring keynote presentations, engaging breakout sessions and valuable networking opportunities focused on personal wellness, professional growth and leadership development. The program is designed to provide practical takeaways, meaningful conversations and lasting connections that participants can carry into their careers, businesses and communities.

In addition to the educational sessions, attendees will have the opportunity to connect with local exhibitors, enjoy dedicated networking throughout the day and participate in vendor prizes and giveaways, creating an engaging experience both inside and outside the classroom.

The Momentum Women’s Summit reflects the Sarpy County Chamber’s commitment to supporting and connecting women through opportunities that inspire growth, leadership and lasting momentum. For more information, you can contact Amber Dyer at membership@ sarpychamber.org or visit sarpychamber.org/w.o.m.e.n.s-summit.

Elite Referral Network Announces August Events in Omaha

Elite Referral Network (ERN) will host several events in Omaha throughout August 2026, offering area business professionals opportunities to connect, build relationships, and experience one of ERN’s growing networking communities.

The Community Omaha: Women in Business will meet Tuesday, August 11 and Tuesday, August 25 at The Corner Kick Cantina, 13806 P St. Social time and optional lunch, available for purchase from the restaurant, begin at noon, with the meeting from 12:30 to 1:30 p.m. Non-members are encouraged to attend and learn more about the group.

The August 11 meeting will feature a mastermind-style conversation on the topic “Better Social Media,” giving attendees the opportunity to share ideas, ask questions, and explore practical ways to improve their online presence. The August 25 meeting will continue the group’s regular focus on connection, business growth, and meaningful peer discussion.

ERN Omaha will also host a Friday Afternoon Club on Friday, August 21 from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. at Primerica, 11811 I St., Ste. 202. The event will be hosted by Andrew Fetter, Primerica Advisor, and is designed as a casual social gathering to help members and guests build a stronger business community.

ERN is also pleased to launch a new series of president trainings starting in August, designed to support group presidents and help them become more effective leaders.

For more information about Elite Referral Network, visit ernomaha. com.

Historic Pell Grant Expansion Arrives, MCC Offers Eligible Programs on Day 1

For the first time, Federal Pell Grant dollars can be used for eligible short-term, noncredit workforce training programs. Metropolitan Community College (MCC) is among the first community colleges in the nation to offer programs eligible for Workforce Pell Grants including Certified Pharmacy Technician, Phlebotomy Technician, CDL and CompTIA+.

“I’ve been in higher education for 40 years, and there’s never been federal ﬁnancial aid available for these programs. This is a moment to celebrate,” said Gary Girard, MCC vice president of Community and Workforce Education programs.

Funding comes from the Working Families Tax Cuts Act. To qualify, programs must range from 8-15 weeks and require 150-599 clock hours to complete, demonstrate 70% program completion and 70% job placement rates, and represent short-term training leading to industry-recognized credentials aligned to workforce demand.

“MCC was ahead of the curve in developing this model,” Girard said. “Workforce Pell levels the playing ﬁeld and takes us from a college-for-all model to a learning-for-all model.”

Workforce Pell provides a new entry point to in-demand careers, fewer ﬁnancial barriers to overcome and shorter time commitments to navigate. Eligibility can be determined by completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).

Visit mccneb.edu/Workforce to learn more information about programs now eligible for Workforce Pell funding. For questions, email CorporateTraining@mccneb.edu.

What’s Your Air Score?

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Engineered Controls o��ers t�e latest and �ost ad�anced air ��alit� �onitoring sensors to �ee� �o�r ��ildings �ealt�� et �o�r indoor air ��alit� s�ea� �or itsel�� ices in ��a�a and �incoln,

Omaha Home & Lifestyle Show Returns This Fall, Connecting Homeowners with Local Home Improvement Experts

Lincoln Coin &

Bullion Receives 2026 NCBA Outstanding Service Award

Homeowners across the Omaha area are invited to kick off their fall home improvement projects at the Omaha Home & Lifestyle Show, taking place Sept. 18-20 at CHI Health Center. Hosted by Nationwide Expos, this threeday event brings together the region’s leading home improvement professionals, remodeling specialists, landscapers, designers and home service providers—all under one roof.

Whether attendees are planning a full renovation, preparing their home for winter, upgrading outdoor spaces, or simply gathering ideas for future projects, the show offers an opportunity to compare products, meet local experts face-to-face and take advantage of exclusive event-only offers.

“Fall is one of the busiest seasons for homeowners preparing their homes for the holiday season ahead,” said Sol Lee, Director of Marketing at Nationwide Expos. “Our goal is to make it easy for people to discover trusted local businesses, compare solutions, ask questions and feel conﬁdent about their next home improvement project.”

What Attendees Can Expect

• Meet trusted local contractors and home service professionals face to face

• Explore the latest products and home improvement trends

• Receive free estimates and expert advice

• Discover remodeling inspiration for kitchens, bathrooms, outdoor living, ﬂooring, rooﬁng, windows, HVAC, solar, landscaping and more

• Take advantage of exclusive show-only discounts and promotions

• Save time by comparing multiple companies in one convenient location

Admission is free, making the event an ideal destination for homeowners, new homebuyers, families and anyone looking to improve or maintain their property.

A Valuable Opportunity for Local Businesses

The Omaha Home & Lifestyle Show also provides one of the region’s most effective face-to-face marketing opportunities for home improvement companies looking to connect directly with motivated homeowners.

With thousands of attendees expected throughout the weekend, exhibitors can generate qualiﬁed leads, build brand awareness, launch new products, schedule consultations and strengthen relationships within the local community.

What sets Nationwide Expos apart is its commitment to exhibitor success. Every exhibitor is paired with a dedicated Account Manager who is trained to help businesses maximize their return on investment before, during and after the event. From booth planning and lead generation strategies to presentation tips, promotional best practices, and proven techniques for engaging attendees, our team equips exhibitors with the tools, resources and insights they need to make the most of every show.

Companies specializing in remodeling, rooﬁng, windows, ﬂooring, kitchens, bathrooms, landscaping, outdoor living, pools, HVAC, solar, pest control, home décor, smart home technology and other home-related services are encouraged to reserve exhibit space while availability remains.

Event Information:

The Omaha Home & Lifestyle Show at the CHI Health Center (455 N. 10th St., Omaha) September 18–20, admission is free, parking is paid, show hours are Friday noon to 6 p.m., Saturday 10 a.m.–5 p.m. and Sunday 11 a.m.–5 p.m., and you can ﬁnd event information, exhibitor details and free tickets at OmahaHomeAndLifestyleShow.com.

Lincoln Coin & Bullion is excited to announce they have received the 2026 National Coin & Bullion Association (NCBA) Diane Piret Outstanding Service Award. This honor recognizes their outstanding leadership and dedication to advancing the successful effort to stop a repeal of the Nebraska sales-and-use tax exemption on coins, bullion, and paper money.

Lincoln Coin & Bullion strives to help customers achieve their goals whether it is purchasing bullion or understanding and valuing an inherited coin collection.

They will take as much time as you need to get you familiar with everything. It is important to them to ensure customers are buying genuine precious metals and not plated or counterfeit items.

The award will be presented during the NCBA Membership Dinner and Association Update on Wednesday, August 26. This event coincides with the World’s Fair of Money, bringing together collectors, dealers, and enthusiasts from around the globe to celebrate and learn more about rare coins and numismatic treasures.

For more information about Lincoln Coin & Bullion call (402) 327-853 or email info@lincolncoinandbullion.com.

ALLO: The New Era of Business Entertainment

Customer experience extends beyond the products and services you offer. It’s shaped by every moment someone spends in your business. Whether it’s a customer waiting for an appointment, guests gathering to watch the big game or visitors relaxing in your lobby, what’s on your screens plays a bigger role than you might think.

Today’s customers expect more, and the right entertainment can help create a welcoming atmosphere, encourage guests to stay longer and elevate the overall customer experience. That’s why ALLO Business is proud to offer DIRECTV for BUSINESS®, delivering a television solution built speciﬁcally for commercial environments.

DIRECTV is designed with businesses in mind. It provides the infrastructure, licensing and support needed to deliver a seamless viewing experience without the buffering, account limitations or compliance concerns that can come with residential streaming platforms.

Whether you need a simple streaming setup or a satellite solution to support multiple screens, businesses can choose the option that best ﬁts their space. Paired with ALLO’s ﬁber network and local support, it’s a reliable entertainment solution built to keep customers connected and engaged.

As they ofﬁcially retire our legacy TV platform on August 20, they are thrilled to usher in this new era of business entertainment. Whether you are a current ALLO customer ready to transition your service, or a local business looking to upgrade your screens, their team is here to help.

To explore your options, call (833) 505-0366 or visit AlloBusiness.com.

NE Chamber Plans ‘Road Show’ Visits to Nebraska Communities

The Nebraska Chamber of Commerce & Industry is scheduling a series of visits across Nebraska beginning this month and continuing through the fall.

Hosted by local Chambers of Commerce and economic development organizations, the Road Show events are designed as community visits to hear directly from local Chamber members, community leaders and others interested in local and regional business development topics.

NE Chamber President & CEO Joseph Young and Executive Vice President of Legislation & Policy Hunter Traynor will lead the conversations along with NE Chamber staff and local ofﬁcials.

“When we visit our members across the state, we gain insight on issues that are unique to their community or region,” said Young. “This input is vital to understanding local needs and advancing policies to make Nebraska the best state in the country to do business.”

Young begins his role this week as president and chief executive for the 114-year-old NE Chamber. A lifelong Nebraskan who recently returned to the state from Florida, he said the Road Show visits will be a chance to reconnect with his home state and learn about recent business and community development in cities across Nebraska.

Matt Williams, interim president and board member of the NE Chamber, kicked off the 2026 Road Show in his hometown of Gothenburg in mid June and the Road Show will end in early October.

The dates and communities that have been scheduled can be found at nechamber.com/road-shows and for more information please contact kbartling@nechamber.com.

Think beyond the urn.

CaretechHelpsFamilyMembersBecomePaid Caregivers Through Its Best Possible Care Program

Caretech is helping eligible family members and trusted friends receive compensation for the care they already provide through its Best Possible Care Program.

Many families support loved ones with daily tasks such as personal care, meal preparation, light housekeeping, mobility, companionship and safety monitoring. However, some may not realize that they could qualify to become paid caregivers.

Through the program, Caretech guides eligible caregivers through the application process, training, certiﬁcations, payroll and ongoing support. This allows care recipients to receive help from someone they already know and trust while giving caregivers access to ﬁnancial support and professional resources.

Eligibility may depend on the care recipient’s needs, approved services, funding source, location and program requirements. Caretech works with families to explain available options and help them understand the enrollment process.

Families interested in learning more about the Best Possible Care Program can call (402) 697-5121 or visit caretechinc.com.

Caretech is an independent non-medical home care provider serving older adults, people with disabilities and families. Since 1999, the company has helped individuals remain safe, supported and independent at home.

There’s more to cremation than selecting an urn.

It’s the start of a process that lets you say good-bye in your own way. From traditional visitation and memorial services to permanent placement and personalized memorials – we invite you to explore all the options available to you with the professionals at Forest Lawn Cemetery, Funeral Home and Mausoleum. We can also show you ways to showcase a life in photos and memorabilia, share heartfelt grief with family and friends and select a final resting place. The possibilities may surprise you.

Edgewater Construction is Celebrating 9 Months in Business!

On July 1st, Edgewater Construction ofﬁcially hit nine months in business. They are excited to be celebrating this milestone with those who made it possible.

Edgewater Construction is incredibly grateful for each and every one of their clients and wants to thank them for being part of the Edgewater Construction journey. They want to give a huge thank you to their amazing customers, partners, friends, and family for your support. They are grateful for every project and every opportunity to serve the community.

Edgewater Construction looks forward to continued growth, quality craftsmanship, and many more homes transformed. They thank all of their clients for trusting them with their homes and truly appreciate the support and look forward to working on future projects.

Nine months down, and they’re just getting started. To learn more about Edgewater Constructions services, browse their work, or request a free estimate visit edgewaterconstruct.com

System Integrator Hall of Fame: Huffman Engineering, Inc. Featured in Automation World

After speaking in early 2026 at the Colorado Rural Water Association conference, Huffman Engineering Inc. (HEI) was excited to continue sharing their knowledge and experiences in the arena of upgrading legacy equipment.

The article, “Legacy Upgrades: Make a Plan or Risk Costly Downtime” features authors, Professional Engineer and Lead Engineer, Nick Hein, PE and Chemical Engineer Caleb Feagans of Huffman Engineering’s Denver ofﬁce. They highlight beneﬁts including robust communication about your system, schedule alignment between operators and management, budget awareness, solid strength in planning and technical expertise. Making a plan for upgrading legacy equipment can be a much better success story than waiting for equipment to fail. You can read the full article here: automationworld.com/factory/ plant-maintenance/article/55381066/legacy-upgrades-make-aplan-or-risk-costly-downtime.

Huffman Engineering’s experience in highly regulated industries and with extremely complex automation and control systems design, execution and installation projects can help you take your company to the next level. Visit huffmaneng.com to learn more.

About Huffman Engineering, Inc.

Huffman Engineering, Inc. has over three decades of experience with a proven track record of delivering large-scale system integration projects with industrial customers and municipalities as an electrical control systems integrator with ofﬁces in Lincoln Omaha & Kearney, Nebraska and Denver, Colorado. They specialize in start-to-ﬁnish engineering projects in pharmaceuticals, water/wastewater, food and beverage, electrical utilities and manufacturing. Huffman Engineering designs and builds robust and reliable automation systems to meet stringent FDA, USDA and EPA regulations.

New Start Cleaning Expands Residential Cleaning Services to the Omaha Area

New Start Cleaning is excited to announce the expansion of its residential cleaning services into Omaha and the surrounding communities. Based in Lincoln, New Start Cleaning is a locally owned, family-run business that has built its reputation by providing dependable, detail-oriented cleaning with a personal touch.

As the company continues to grow, Omaha homeowners now have access to the same quality service that families in Lincoln have trusted for years. Services include recurring home cleaning, deep cleaning, move-in and move-out cleaning, and new construction home cleaning.

Owner Coco Chairez says the expansion is an exciting milestone for the company and reﬂects the continued support of its clients and team. New Start Cleaning looks forward to serving more families while maintaining the same commitment to quality, reliability, and care that has been the foundation of the business since day one. For more information, please call (402) 417-4755, email drewedmond3@ gmail.com or visit their Facebook page.

University of Nebraska-Lincoln’s Nonproﬁt Management Institute to Offer Virtual Financial Courses in 2026

The University of Nebraska-Lincoln’s Nonprofit Management Institute, housed in Nebraska’s College of Business Center for Executive and Professional Development, is eager to introduce a new slate of virtual courses for nonprofit professionals during the fall of 2026. These courses were designed by and for nonprofit professionals to support a growing need for financial education in Nebraska and beyond.

“Participants from across the country have appreciated the convenience of virtual sessions, as well as the opportunity to engage with facilitators and classmates during the interactive half-day sessions,” stated Executive Director Dr. Amber Messersmith. “Nonproﬁt professionals dedicate their time and energy to fulﬁ lling their organizations’ missions and investing in continuing education only strengthens those contributions.”

Courses are delivered via Zoom, allowing participants to join from anywhere. Students who complete the prerequisite course and any three, two-day courses will receive a certiﬁcate in Nonproﬁt Financial Management.

Viridiana Almanza, Director of Programming at the Latino Center of the Midlands earned her certificate in Nonprofit Financial Management during the Spring of 2026. “The more we understand our budgets and ﬁnances, the better positioned we are to make decisions that are sustainable, responsible and ultimately more impactful for the communities we serve. It wasn’t just a series of classes—it felt like a progression that deepened my understanding over time and connected theory to real-world application.”

Nebraska Nonprofit Management Institute financial courses are ideal for executive directors, board members, and rising leaders within the nonprofit sector.

To learn more about the Nebraska Nonproﬁt Management Institute and view the course schedule, visit go.unl.edu/nmi.

Graepel North America Celebrates Two Decades of Growth in Omaha

Good Times Trailer Ready to Roll for Husker Football Tailgate Season

Graepel, a leading manufacturer of sheet metal products headquartered in Löningen, Germany, is celebrating its 20th anniversary in Nebraska. Founded in Omaha in 2006, Graepel North America Inc. has grown from a one-person sales office to a full-scale production facility with 65 employees and 85,000 square feet of production space. Customers in the agricultural machinery, construction machinery and commercial vehicles sectors rely on Graepel as a local supplier that combines German engineering with short lead times and on-site production.

The growth story unfolded in four stages. Starting with a rented ofﬁce and warehouse space in 2006, the company moved into its ﬁrst production facility in 2010, importing its initial hydraulic presses from Germany. In 2014, Graepel North America built its own plant in south-west Omaha and doubled its footprint once more in 2022. The installation of a high-speed press in 2026 signaled the continuation of a journey, with all products now being manufactured in Omaha.

The North American subsidiary has become a central pillar of the Graepel Group’s international manufacturing strategy. With six locations across Germany, Hungary, India and the United States, Graepel now serves customers in over 30 countries.

Graepel North America was the ﬁrst company in the Omaha area to introduce the German-style dual apprenticeship model through the ICATT program run by the German-American Chamber of Commerce. Today, more than 4,000 people in Nebraska are enrolled in similar training programs, reﬂecting the wider impact of the GermanAmerican business relationship in the region. More information available at graepel-na.com.

With Husker Football season just around the corner, Good Times Trailer is gearing up to deliver the ultimate tailgate experience for Nebraska fans looking to make every game day unforgettable.

Whether hosting friends, family, customers or employees, Good Times Trailer provides a unique and hassle-free gathering space that brings people together to celebrate Nebraska football in style. From pre-game festivities to post-game celebrations, Good Times Trailer creates the perfect atmosphere for food, fun, and Husker pride.

“Our mission is simple: help fans enjoy game day without the stress,” said the Good Times Trailer team. “We handle the setup so our guests can focus on making memories and cheering on the Big Red.”

Good Times Trailer is available for Husker football tailgates, corporate events and client entertainment, alumni and fan gatherings, community events and celebrations, and private parties and special occasions.

With demand expected to be high throughout the football season, early reservations are encouraged to secure desired game dates.

Good Times Trailer offers a turnkey solution that makes tailgating easy, fun and memorable for groups of all sizes. As fans prepare to ﬁll Memorial Stadium once again, Good Times Trailer is ready to help create the kind of game-day experience that keeps people talking long after the ﬁnal whistle.

For booking information and availability, contact Good Times Trailer today at GoodTimesTrailer.com or (402) 217-1926.

your bonus when you open a primary checking account by September 30, 2026*

*To be eligible for the bonus you must open a Primary Checking Account, either a BreakFree Checking Plus or Direct Checking Plus account (“Bonus Account”) in person at a branch with a minimum opening deposit of $25. To qualify for the bonus, customers must complete the requirements below through the Bonus Account within 60 days from the date of its opening. Bonus will only be credited if the account is currently in an open status with a positive balance.

1. 25 debit transactions. A “debit transaction” for the purpose of this section means a debit to your Bonus Account that originated from an ACH, Bankers Trust bill payment, drafting checks, or use of your debit card as a method of payment or purchase. Qualifying debit card transactions must post and settle during the 60 days from account opening. A “debit transaction” does not include debits to your Bonus Account that originated from ATM withdrawals or other debits to your Bonus Account; and,

2. 2 direct (ACH) and/or Mobile deposits of at least $200 each must post and settle during the 60 days from account opening. A “deposit” for the purposes of this section does not include ATM deposit, deposits made in person, account-to-account transfers, or other deposits to your Bonus Account.

Eligibility will be verified 60 days after the Bonus Account’s opening. Bonus will only be credited if the account is currently in an open status with a positive balance. Should you have met all eligibility requirements and are not subject to the limitations and exclusions contained herein, the bonus will be credited to the Bonus Account within 75 days of its opening. Limit one bonus per household. Offer not available to existing Bankers Trust checking customers or those that have had a checking account with Bankers Trust within six months of Bonus Account opening. Employees of Bankers Trust and/or its affiliates are not eligible for bonus.

Nebraska Association of School Boards Partners with CareerPathway.com to Strengthen Nebraska’s Education-toWorkforce Pipeline

The Nebraska Association of School Boards (NASB) and CareerPathway.com have announced a strategic partnership to strengthen Nebraska’s education-toworkforce pipeline and expand career readiness opportunities for students across the state.

Through this agreement, NASB will promote CareerPathway.com to its member school districts and Educational Service Units (ESUs), providing access to a workforce intelligence and talent pipeline platform that connects students, educators, employers, community organizations and workforce partners.

The partnership supports Nebraska students in exploring careers, engaging with local employers and building pathways from education into the workforce.

“Strong communities depend on strong connections between education and workforce opportunities,” said John Spatz, Executive Director of NASB. “This partnership provides Nebraska school districts with access to innovative tools and resources that help students explore career pathways while strengthening engagement with employers and community partners.”

“NASB’s endorsement represents a signiﬁcant milestone in our mission to create Nebraska’s most connected workforce ecosystem,” said Maggi Thorne, Chief Strategy Ofﬁcer of CareerPathway.com. “Together, we can help every student gain access to meaningful career exploration opportunities while providing schools and employers with the tools and data needed to build stronger talent pipelines for Nebraska’s future.”

As part of the agreement, NASB will promote CareerPathway. com through member communications, events, strategic planning initiatives and educational programming. CareerPathway. com will support participating districts, expand employer partnerships and provide resources that strengthen careerconnected learning opportunities.

For more information, please visit careerpathway.com or contact Emily Quinn at Emily@careerpathway.com.

FotoFunSpot is proud to announce it has been named Best Photo Booth by Nebraska Wedding Day in the publication’s annual Best of Nebraska awards. The recognition celebrates businesses that have made a lasting impact on Nebraska’s wedding industry through exceptional service and memorable client experiences.

The award represents more than a single event or successful season. For the FotoFunSpot team, it reflects years spent refining the guest experience, investing in new ideas, and finding ways to make every celebration feel personal. From intimate weddings to large corporate events, the team’s focus has always been on creating an experience that feels like a natural part of the celebration rather than just another vendor.

“Winning this award is incredibly meaningful because it comes from the wedding community we’ve had the privilege of working alongside,” Maria shared. “We’re surrounded by talented planners, venues, photographers, DJs, ﬂorists, and so many others who care deeply about their clients. To be recognized among them is something we don’t take lightly.”

The team extends its gratitude to Nebraska Wedding Day, the event sponsors, fellow wedding professionals, and every couple who has trusted FotoFunSpot to be part of such an important day.

As the company continues to grow, the award serves as both a milestone and a reminder to keep raising the bar for the clients and communities it serves.

For more information visit fotofunspot.com.

FotoFunSpotNamedNebraskaWeddingDay’s Best Photo Booth

August Reconnect with Center Sphere

As summer winds down and routines begin to return, August is the perfect time to sharpen your networking skills and reconnect with the relationships that help your business grow. While students head back to the classroom, professionals can head back to building meaningful connections through Center Sphere.

Start the month by joining them for Coffee & Connections on Thursday, August 13, from 7:30 to 9 a.m., hosted by Forsman’s Finest Decks at 20205 Park Road, Elkhorn, NE 68022. It’s the perfect way to start your morning with fresh conversations, new introductions and a renewed focus on growing your business.

Ready to learn more about what Center Sphere has to offer? Their Meet the Network event on Tuesday, August 18, from 11 a.m. to noon at The Boardroom Omaha, 17121 Marcy Street, Suite 104, is designed for professionals who want to explore membership, ask questions and discover how relationship-based networking can support their goals.

Then, wrap up the month at the Network-wide Social on Thursday, August 27, from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m., hosted by Freedom Travel at The Root Coworking, 1501 Mike Fahey Street, Suite 110. These relaxed gatherings are a fantastic opportunity to strengthen existing relationships while meeting members from chapters across the Omaha area.

This August, make networking part of your routine. New opportunities often begin with a simple conversation. For more information about these events or Center Sphere chapters throughout the Omaha area, contact Martina at martina@centersphere.com.

GreaterOmahaChamberBringsU.S.Chamber and Digital Training Initiative to Small Businesses

The Greater Omaha Chamber is launching Digital Boost, a new technology and digital business initiative designed to help small and emerging businesses strengthen operations, adopt digital tools, and compete in today’s economy.

Digital Boost will offer workshops, technology training, one-on-one business consultations, and practical resources that help entrepreneurs improve efficiency, expand their online presence, and integrate technology into their day-to-day operations. The workshops will provide free, hands-on AI training designed to help small businesses grow, remain competitive, and strengthen local economies. The first initiative launched on July 30, 2026, through the national Small Business B(AI)sics program with support from Google. The initiative aims to equip 40,000 small businesses over the next three years with practical artificial intelligence skills, digital learning resources and in-person training opportunities.

Heath Mello, President and CEO of the Greater Omaha Chamber said “Through Digital Boost, we are connecting local businesses to practical AI, e-commerce and technology training that can immediately strengthen their operations. This partnership reﬂects what chambers do best: bring organizations together to expand opportunity and help businesses thrive.”

For more information on the Greater Omaha Chamber visit omahachamber.org.

Omaha Business Hall of Fame Gala –HonoringOmaha’sBusinessPastandPresent and Igniting its Future

Initiated in 1993 as part of the Greater Omaha Chamber’s centennial anniversary, the Omaha Business Hall of Fame recognizes Omaha-area business luminaries for their incredible legacy and commitment to their business, industry, and community. Honorees are inducted into the Omaha Business Hall of Fame at a brilliant gala that supports the next generation of Omaha professionals.

The Omaha Business Hall of Fame Gala will take place Wednesday, August 19 from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. CDT. This event includes a dinner and cocktail hour, ceremony, and dessert reception. Single tickets are $250 for members or $350 for non-members. Members may also purchase a Patron Package of 4 tickets for $1800 that includes reserved seating during the induction ceremony, parking vouchers, and your organizations name listed in the digital program.

Reservations for this event are due Tuesday, August 11 at 11:59 p.m. No refunds will be granted for cancellations after this date.

To view full event details and honorees, visit OmahaChamber.org/ BHOF.

MCC Nationally Recognized for Workforce Innovation Leadership

Metropolitan Community College (MCC) has been recognized as ACT’s 2026 Workforce Innovation Champion, honoring the College’s leadership in developing employer-aligned workforce training and helping shape a national model that connects more learners to high-demand careers.

The award was presented during the 2026 ACT Summit in Nashville, Tennessee, recognizing organizations that are advancing college and career success through innovative education and workforce partnerships. MCC integrates ACT WorkKeys into workforce programs, pairs technical training with career coaching and works closely with employers to prepare learners for family-sustaining careers.

“Our goal has always been to help people gain the skills, credentials and support they need to succeed while helping employers build the workforce they need. We’re honored that ACT recognized those efforts on a national stage,” said Tammy Green, executive director of Statewide Workforce Initiatives at MCC.

The recognition builds on the College’s leadership as a national partner in developing the Pathways to Success Toolkit, a free resource that helps communities strengthen education-to-workforce pipelines. The toolkit provides practical strategies, planning resources and implementation guides that communities can use to better align education, workforce development, employers and economic development efforts.

“The Pathways to Success Toolkit reﬂects what we’ve learned by working directly with employers and community partners to remove barriers and create clearer pathways into rewarding careers,” Green said. “We’re proud that communities across the country can now build on those lessons to strengthen their own workforce systems.”

For more information visit mccneb.edu.

Empowerment Network Strengthens Omaha’sWorkforceThroughYouthandAdult Employment Programs

Celebrating 20 years of collaboration and impact, the Empowerment Network continues to connect Omaha residents to career opportunities and pathways to economic mobility through its signature initiatives: Step-Up Omaha and Skill-Up Omaha.

Step-Up Omaha kicked off its 2026 summer employment initiative on June 2 and is now in its 18th year. Founded in 2008 by the Empowerment Network in partnership with the City of Omaha, it serves youth ages 14 to 21 through paid work experience, career readiness training, internships and year-round development.

The need continues to grow. In 2025, Step-Up Omaha received a record 1,842 applications and enrolled 611 participants. Since its launch, the initiative has served nearly 10,000 youth.

Skill-Up Omaha serves residents ages 21 and older who are ready to increase income and build generational wealth. The sixmonth initiative includes career coaching, personalized assessments, short-term training, certiﬁcations and wrap-around support such as transportation, health services and ﬁnancial empowerment. In June, Skill-Up celebrated the graduation of its second cohort.

“Change starts with truth,” said Diablo William, a 2026 Skill-Up graduate. “They give you the opportunity to experience what you truly want to experience, whether it’s a career, your own business or something bigger.”

Together, both initiatives are helping residents take the next step toward economic mobility. Local businesses still have opportunities to participate in Step-Up as employers or sponsors.

Visit stepupomaha.com/employers for more information.

To learn more about Skill-Up and apply for the next cohort, visit empoweromaha.com.

Cabinet IQ of Omaha Set to Host Tailgate September 3

Cabinet IQ of Omaha is hosting a tailgate to kick off college football season at their showroom, located at 9825 Giles Rd, La Vista on Thursday, September 3 from 5 - 7:30 p.m.

This is a fun event to get clients, partners and community together for some food, drink, games, a few vendors and giveaways!

At Cabinet IQ, they specialize in the design, sale and installation of high-quality cabinets and countertops for any space. Their streamlined process is built around delivering exceptional customer experience from start to ﬁnish.

To RSVP, please email Kali at Kali@cabinetiq.com

For many business owners, success comes with an unexpected cost. The company grows, revenue increases; the team expands—and yet somehow the business demands more of them than ever before.

Business Coaches with ExcelEdge ActionCOACH address the challenge facing thousands of business owners stuck between growth and freedom every day. Coaching, and the recently published, $10M Business by Bradley Sugars, founder of ActionCOACH, reveals a hard truth: what helped you build a successful business may be the very thing preventing you from scaling it.

Many owners have built businesses that rely on their decisions, their energy and their constant presence. The result is a company that looks successful from the outside but feels exhausting on the inside. Coaching provides a practical roadmap for transforming a business from owner-dependent to system-driven, leader-led and scalable.

Local business coaches, Molly Reinecke and Breann Lundblad, often ask: If you stepped away from your business for 90 days, would it grow, stall or struggle?

To help business owners answer that question and identify the real constraints holding them back, ExcelEdge ActionCOACH is offering two complimentary weeks of coaching. During this process, owners will gain clarity on what must change to build a business capable of reaching—and sustaining—the $10 million mark.

The goal isn’t simply more revenue. It’s building a business that supports your life instead of consuming it.

Schedule your complimentary two-week coaching experience today and discover what’s standing between your current success and your next level of growth. More information is available at exceledge. actioncoach.com.

Sarpy Chamber Economic Outlook 2026

This year Sarpy Chamber will once again be hosting their Economic Outlook event on Thursday, September 24 and will provide insights shaping the future of Sarpy County. The Chamber is a dynamic leader in advocacy for business and economic prosperity in Bellevue, Gretna, La Vista, Offutt, Papillion, and Springfield. They provide a host of programs and services designed to help businesses of all sizes.

The upcoming event consists of two parts. Networking with pastries and coffee will take place from 8:00-8:30 a.m. then from 8:3010:30 a.m. Four organizations will present on a broad range of issues impacting the local economy. During this time the Metropolitan Area Planning Agency (MAPA) will share what’s ahead for regional planning and development, Catalyst Public affairs will give a look ahead at the 2027 Nebraska Legislature, Omaha Public Power District (OPPD) will share current initiative and future energy projects, and the Sarpy Chamber will outline their strategic plan update and priorities for the future.

The event will take place Thursday, September 24 at the Beardmore Event Center located at 3750 Raynor Parkway in Bellevue.

For more information or to register visit sarpychamber.org.

Guardians Field Dedicated to Fallen and Retired Law Enforcement Animals

Forever Friends Pet Cemetery at Forest Lawn has announced Guardians Field, a special area reserved exclusively for law enforcement animals that have fallen in the line of duty or retired from service. Developed in partnership with local law enforcement, Guardians Field is part of a program that also helps to cover burial expenses of these animals.

“We respect the contributions these special animals make to area law enforcement agencies. Guardians Field is a way to honor them with a place of tribute, respect and remembrance,” said Brian Kruse, executive director at Forest Lawn Funeral Home, Cemetery and Mausoleum.

Forest Lawn is working with law enforcement personnel from individual policing agencies on fundraising eXorts to cover burial expenses. Forever Friends is donating space and burial fees, while law enforcement fundraises for headstones and other items. Plans are also underway to raise monies for a permanent monument to recognize and honor the service and dedication of these remarkable service animals.

According to Kruse, trainers and law enforcement teams with cremated remains of law enforcement animals are welcome to contact Forever Friends to make arrangements.

“These animals become close companions to their law enforcement partners, and really the entire team. It’s important that they have a permanent resting place that honors what is truly a lifetime of service,” Kruse said.

For more information please contact (402) 205-7770 or info@ foreverfriendsomaha.com. Forever Friends is located at Forest Lawn, 7909 Mormon Bridge Road in Omaha.

Juiced Fuel Announces Overnight Operations

Juiced Fuel is happy to announce that they have recently started operating overnight in both Omaha and Lincoln to refuel delivery trucks. This advancement allows them to service more people at all times of the day.

Juiced Fuel’s mission is safer, smarter, more convenient fuel delivery that keeps you moving forward. They deliver high-quality fuel directly to your car, boat, or equipment wherever you are in Omaha saving both your time and money.

The process is simple. Open the Juiced Fuel app to schedule your delivery and receive real-time updates by text or email. Juiced Fuel’s certiﬁed drivers will be there soon to top you off with high-quality fuel. With their new overnight delivery and assets they are able to service more customers in the Omaha and Lincoln area.

Juiced Fuel looks forward to helping you save time and stay focused on your day. For more information visit juicedfuel.com/Omaha or download the Juiced Fuel app.

Aviture Brings Nebraska’s First Mobile Keno Platform to Life with Big Red Keno

For decades, playing Keno in Nebraska meant heading to a local bar or restaurant and watching the numbers roll on a screen overhead. Now, thanks to Aviture, players can carry that same experience in their pocket. The Omaha-based technology consulting and software engineering firm has designed and delivered Nebraska’s ﬁrst mobile Keno platform in partnership with Big Red Keno, reimagining a beloved local tradition for a digital-ﬁrst world.

The new app, now live on the Apple App Store and Google Play, showcases Aviture’s ability to take a traditional, community-rooted business and modernize it without sacriﬁcing what made it successful in the ﬁrst place. For Big Red Keno, that meant a more convenient, connected and engaging way for players across Nebraska to enjoy the game they already loved.

Aviture’s engineering team worked closely with Big Red Keno to translate decades of local relationships and brand trust into a seamless mobile experience, building a platform that is secure, scalable and intuitive from the ground up. The result proves that innovation and community connection are not mutually exclusive. They can reinforce each other.

The partnership reflects Aviture’s broader mission of helping organizations solve complex business challenges through technology while staying true to what makes them unique. As both companies look ahead, Aviture continues to lead the charge in bringing Nebraska businesses into the digital age, one thoughtfully engineered solution at a time.

For more information, please visit aviture.us.com.

EMILY

Emily Cheek FOTOFUNSPOT

Emily Cheek is a photo booth assistant at FotoFunSpot.

Tell us a little about your business. - FotoFunSpot is a photo booth rental company in the Omaha area that offers photo booth experiences for events like weddings, parties, and corporate functions. Along with the booth rental, our clients have an attendant/assistant that runs the booth so they can enjoy their special occasion.

How did you get started in the business? - Five years ago, my sister, who also works for FotoFunSpot, asked to me help with a photo booth at a wedding. One event was all it took! I love being a part of people’s celebrations and wanted to stay on as an assistant.

What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally? - I am naturally an introvert so working in the entertainment space was hard at ﬁrst. Making sure that our clients are having a fun experience has pushed me to come out of my shell and has helped me grow both personally and professionally.

What has been your most important achievement professionally? - Staying with FotoFunSpot for the past 5 years!

Tell us a little about your family. - I have been married to my husband for 11 years. We enjoy watching movies together and spending time as a family. We have a daughter who is 7. She is kind and smart. Her favorite things are swimming and being outside; we especially love riding bikes and playing at the park. We also have a son who is 6. He is funny and full of life. He loves play at the park, playing video games, dressing up as super heroes, and going to his kids’ gym.

What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life? - In June, we found out our son has Rett Syndrome, a progressive genetic disorder that targets motor function and comes with an array of additional concerns over time. We’re still adjusting to the news and while we don’t know what the future holds, we do know that the diagnosis changes a lot for us as a family.

What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? - My favorite thing to do on my day off is treat myself to a pedicure.

What is the most unique or interesting thing about you that most people probably don’t know? - I enjoy working out. I wake up at 4:05 a.m. most days to get to the gym by 5 to workout.

Who inspires you? - Entrepreneurs. I think it’s awesome that they take risks and strive to work for themselves/build their own businesses.

What is your favorite quote or the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? - “What you aren’t changing; you are choosing”.

If you could choose only one descriptive word to be remembered as, what would it be? - Authentic.

If you could choose any other profession to be successful in, what would it be? - I would love to be a doula and support mothers through the pregnancy process.

What local nonproﬁt organization(s) are you passionate about or involved with, and are there any special reasons why? - I like serving/giving to the Open Door Mission. I love what their mission is for our community. I love that they are the hands and feet of Jesus in how they serve.

What is your favorite book or the last good book you read? - The Bible.

What is your favorite TV show? - The Middle.

What is your favorite local Omaha restaurant? - 30 Hop.

If you could have dinner with one famous person from the past or present, who would it be? - Forest Frank.

If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? - If you would like to book a Photo Booth with FotoFunSpot, call us at (402) 915-1386.

MOLLY

Molly Reinecke EXCELEDGE ACTIONCOACH

Molly Reinecke is a Certiﬁ ed Business Coach at ExcelEdge ActionCoach.

Tell us a little about your business. - I am a certiﬁed business coach with ExcelEdge ActionCoach.

How did you get started in the business? - I grew up in a family business, spent 20 years in the ﬁnancial industry and multiple years running a group of businesses. What better way to combine and utilize all than to help other businesses achieve their goals.

Tell us a little about your family. - I am ﬁrst and foremost a proud mom of 3. Tysen is 22, McKinna 19 and Kipton 16. All have been involved in high-level athletics. Their hard work, perseverance and drive is my greatest motivator. How can I tell them to chase their dreams if I don’t lead by example?! I grew up in a 100-year-old multi-generational business in small town Nebraska. My background growing up was as diverse as my work background in that I spent time in the outdoors, country and city life in a business.

What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life?

- The single greatest turning point in my life was the day I realized the impact that growing up in a family business, that was relationshipfocused, had on me professionally and personally.

What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? - I love to hit the gym and spend some time outdoors. At the lake or the golf course, give me all the summer sun and outdoors.

What is the most unique or interesting thing about you that most people probably don’t know? - Oddly enough, about 10 years ago I was bit by a tick that has left me allergic to most red meat, speciﬁcally beef and pork.

Who inspires you? - Outside of my kids, I am inspired always by those that face challenges or adversity and choose to rise about it and not let it deﬁne who they are.

What is your favorite quote or the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? - The best advice I have ever received is “don’t expect you out of others”.

If you could choose only one descriptive word to be remembered as, what would it be? – Thoughtful.

If you had a theme song, what would it be? - “Unstoppable” by Sia.

If you could choose any other profession to be successful in, what would it be? - Only because I’m so bad, I wish I could sing as well as I think I can when I’m alone in my car. HA!

What local nonproﬁt organization(s) are you passionate about or involved with, and are there any special reasons why? - Rotary will always have a special place in my heart. I am a proud Rotarian and have been attending since I was little with my dad and grandpa.

What is your favorite book or the last good book you read? - I recently read Selling the Invisible, great perspective on how to sell the intangible.

What is your favorite local Omaha restaurant? - I’m a huge fan of M’s Pub; again they have overcome the adversity but the food and service is always amazing.

If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? - Via my email mollyreinecke@actioncoach.com or connect with me on LinkedIn.

One person can start an idea, but community carries it forward.

SCOTT Your Business Looks Different When You Show Up In It

If your headshot is outdated ... your website feels pieced together ... or your content doesn’t quite reflect where your business is now … you’re not alone.

Most business owners outgrow their visuals long before they replace them. I help you create polished, strategic images that actually represent your brand today. So when people find you, they trust you. From guided headshots to a full library of brand images, everything is planned with intention and delivered with ease.

Scott Bossung ALLO BUSINESS

Scott

Bossung is a Senior

Product Manager - Product Development at ALLO Business

Tell us a little about your business. - ALLO Business delivers a comprehensive suite of technology solutions designed to help businesses stay connected, secure, and productive. From high-speed ﬁber internet to managed IT and cybersecurity services, we help organizations improve efﬁciency, strengthen security, and support long-term growth.

What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally?ALLO Business recently integrated a separate company that brought Managed Services, Compliance and Cybersecurity solutions into our product portfolio. Gearing up the rest of the business to Sell, Provision, Install and Support these complex solutions for our customers has been a very rewarding challenge.

Tell us a little about your family. - My wife Sheila and I have been married for 27 years (I think), and we have a 21 year old son Sam, and a 14 year old son Caleb!

What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? - Not work! My son Sam and I both have old cars, and we enjoy working on those. My son Caleb is a fan of all swimming pools, so we spend a lot of time at the YMCA at the pool!

If you could choose only one descriptive word to be remembered as, what would it be? - Memorable. Whether you enjoyed our time together, or ﬁnd me annoying, I just hope you remember our interactions.

If you had a theme song, what would it be? - The theme song from the best 80’s sitcom “The Facts of Life”. I always loved Tootie’s hair!

If you could have a super power, what would it be? - The ability to make people relax. We get so caught up in the day to day stresses and disagreements, it’s good to just relax and chat sometimes.

The I

If you could choose any other profession to be successful in, what would it be? - I’d be an astronaut because that means I’d be super smart! Not smart like wearing a diaper to drive all the way across the country, but smart like landing on the moon!

What is your favorite movie? - I think this would be No Country for Old Men. I really like all the main characters, and their journeys. Even Woody Harrelson who’s character has a bit too much ego in that movie.

If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? - If you’ve got any questions at all about the products and solutions we offer to help your business, shoot me an email at scott.bossung@ alloﬁber.com you

If you could have dinner with one famous person from the past or present, who would it be? - Is my wife considered famous? Other than to me?!? Ok, I guess not. Other than my wife, I’d probably go with Benjamin Franklin, so we can talk about where we’ve gone as a country and what we’ve achieved. He seems like a thoughtful person who would be fun to talk to.

Tell us a little about your business. - Cabinet IQ of Omaha is a cabinet and countertop company proudly serving Omaha and the surrounding areas. Our beautiful showroom, located at 98th and Giles in La Vista, features some of our eight beautiful cabinet lines and a wide variety of countertop options. We also have a full-time designer who is dedicated to bringing your dream space to life. Since we’re a small team of just three people, you’ll receive personalized service and attention.

How did you get started in the business? - My husband and I spent a long time researching franchise opportunities, especially in the home services industry. We were drawn to Cabinet IQ because of its leadership, team and strong values. Our goal was to bring a company to the Omaha area that homeowners could trust—one that is known for excellent communication, outstanding customer service and high-quality work.

Tell us a little about your family. - My husband Greg and I have been married for 17 years and have 2 children: a daughter Everly who is 16 and Huxley, our son, is 14. We also have a 4 year old Bernese Mountain Dog named Martha.

What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? - I love watching my kids play sports, reading a good book and spending time with my family.

What is your favorite quote or the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? - “Life is not measured by the number of breaths we take, but by the moments that take our breath away.”

Which talent would you most like to have? - I would love to learn how to play both the guitar and the piano. I took piano lessons for many years, but it never really stuck. Music has always been a big part of my life, and being able to play it myself is something I think would be incredibly rewarding and good for my soul.

If you could choose any other profession to be successful in, what would it be? - I am also an elementary educator with 21 years of experience. I taught fourth grade for 12 years, spent six years as a substitute teacher, and am beginning my fourth year teaching High Ability Learners in grades 3–6.

What is your favorite book or the last good book you read? - It’s so hard to pick one favorite book for me, so I’ll say my latest favorite was Say You’ll Remember Me by Abby Jimenez.

What is your favorite local Omaha restaurant? - Another difﬁcult decision! I’d probably say The Drover or Talus.

measured be

If you could have dinner with one famous person from the past or present, who would it be? - I think it would be fun to have dinner with Will Ferrell. I’d love to talk with him about all the different roles he’s played and listen to him do different impersonations.

If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? - The best way to get ahold of me is by email at Kali@CabinetIQ. com . You can also call the showroom at (531) 228-4747.

Kali Allen is the Co-Owner at Cabinet IQ of Omaha

JASON

Jason Howe K2 HOLISTIC HEALTH

Jason Howe is the CEO and physician associate at K2 Holistic Health.

Tell us a little bit about your business. - We were very purposeful when we chose our clinic name: K2 Holistic Health. K2 is one of the highest and most challenging mountains in the world. We recognize that every one of our patients are facing a challenging mountain of their own: whether it is chronic pain, neuropathy, fatigue, weight gain, hormone imbalances or injury. Our mission is to overcome those obstacles and help each person climb those very mountains. K2 also represents the two principles that guide our care: Kinetics (how the body moves) and Kinesthetics (the neurology behind the movement). Restoring our patients’ movement and neurology is fundamental in our treatments. By integrating medical care, rehabilitation and performance optimization, we help our patients reclaim their health.

How did you get started in the business? - I grew up in a very medical family. However, working several years in ER and primary care had taught me that the medical system is broken, as we delay death in the ER only to shufﬂe those patients back to primary care for more and more medications that address different symptoms but fail to actually address the core issues that lead to pathology. Each step in my professional journey has taken me closer and closer to founding K2 Holistic Health: a clinic grounded in helping our patients reclaim their health. Our clinic integrates the best of the medical world, physical therapy world and chiropractic care, with a bonus specialty in hormones and peptides. Our orthopedics are grounded in imaging guided procedures with regenerative medicine, PRP, and Sarapin. Our neurology is grounded in nutritional overhaul, neurogenesis and addressing the cause of the neuropathy. Our endocrine focus is grounded in understanding how systemic inﬂammation leads to insulin resistance, which leads to mitochondrial dysfunction, and how this pathological process can be corrected with hormone and peptide balancing.

What has been your most important achievement professionally? - My answer would deﬁnitely be founding this clinic and growing it this fast. Yet, K2 Holistic Health isn’t my achievement. This clinic is here to help others because of the many people who have poured their lives into this clinic (and into mine as well). My incredible wife Carley, who has been instrumental in reshaping my life, and who has been so supportive as we excitedly drew what ended up being the clinic name, logo and organizational structure with a crayon on a children’s menu in an Omaha restaurant. My incredible parents Dan and Donna, whose love and support has sustained both the clinic and my own life. My incredible staff who have believed in our clinic- and in me—so much as to get through those tough early months together. My incredible patients, many of whom have followed me from one clinic to another, as they appreciated something about my journey. To Ashley Tobias, Manny Walker and my incredible friends in our networking groups who accepted me. The list could go on and on, but I am limited by a word count in this article. :)

If you had a theme song, what would it be? - I don’t think there is a song that better ﬁts my life than “Growing Young”, by Rich Mullins. Those lyrics are loaded! They speak to someone making choices they deeply regret, and yet that isn’t the end for them. There can still be love and redemption. “Was Your love stronger than my foolish pride?” Then those lyrics that follow, with the way he sings it? That hits home. This is the theme song for my life.

If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? - Our clinic phone is (402) 817-1999, which is the easiest way to reach the clinic. Our website has a lot of good information on it (k2holistichealth.com), as does our Facebook and Instagram pages (K2 Holistic Health).

MEGAN

Megan Jahn OSTEOSTRONG

Megan Jahn is the REMS Tech and Coach at Osteostrong Omaha Regency

Tell us a little about your business. - I work primarily as a Coach here at Osteostrong but on Thursdays, I am one of our REM Tech’s alongside Traci Kruk who joins me periodically! REMS stands for Radiofrequency Echographic Multi Spectrometry. Very different than a DXA scan, this is an ultrasound scan, so it only uses soundwaves! Making this a great non-invasive, reliable, very informational scan! It is quick and easy and is no harm to you at all. It is a fantastic way to get a reading of your bone density and bone strength, which is huge!

How did you get started in the business? - My dad, Dave Jahn is the owner of this Osteostrong in Regency. We have been here since June of 2024 and I have been working here since early 2025 after deciding to put an end to my college career to becoming an ultrasound technician. I have been doing REMS scans since August of 2025. It is perfect as I have the hands on experience for ultrasounds and am very versed in doing the REMS Scans here. We brought in the REMS because we wanted a better, healthier way for people of the Omaha metro and surrounding areas to have this readily available for them. I ﬁnd joy in being here at our center with our members and helping them achieve a long time life goal for their bone health!

Tell us a little about your family. - I am the youngest of four and have a pretty big family! I have three older siblings, one brother and two sisters and I am an aunt to two lovely nieces that are one month apart and have another niece or nephew on the way! It always seems to be a madhouse at the Jahn household.

What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? - Hitting the gym, spending time out by the pool, dressing up and going out for a nice double date dinner with my boyfriend and our friends and having a fun night all together!

What is the most unique or interesting thing about you that most people probably don’t know? - I’m a planning nerd. I genuinely enjoy organizing trips, projects and weddings. If there’s a spreadsheet or a checklist or itinerary involved, I’m probably having a good time.

Who inspires you? - Mel Robbins, a phenomenal woman who is an author and speaker. She has her own podcast and has a book called the Let Them Theory. I think everyone should pick this book up and learn some interesting science backed studies.

What is your favorite quote or the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? - “You are responsible for your own happiness. You are responsible for the energy you bring and how you show up. You are responsible for waking up every day and doing the work to make progress on what matters to you. You are responsible for telling the truth even when it’s really hard. Nobody owes you anything, but you owe yourself everything.” – Mel Robbins.

If you could choose only one descriptive word to be remembered as, what would it be? - Sophisticated. I like to think of myself as someone who has learned a lot and experienced a lot for only being 22. I am very aware of what goes on around me and very knowledgeable and conﬁdent when it comes to what I know.

What is your favorite movie? - It’s a tie between the Fast and Furious sequel or the Marvel sequel.

What is your favorite local Omaha restaurant? - Memoir or Nicola’s! If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? - Our center number is (531) 867-3013! If email is your preferred way of contact, you can reach us at omaharegency@osteostrong.me!

Why Replace When You Can Restore

Whether

NEWS

First State Bank Nebraska Announces Rank Promotions

First State Bank Nebraska is pleased to announce that the Executive Committee has approved several ofﬁcer rank promotions recognizing the leadership, dedication and contributions of valued team members across the organization.

Iris Wiese, Digital Banking Ofﬁcer, has been promoted to the rank of Vice President. With nearly 14 years of service, Wiese has demonstrated exceptional leadership and a strong commitment to enhancing the digital banking experience for First State customers. Her expertise and dedication have played an important role in advancing the bank’s digital services and customerfocused initiatives.

Brett Storer, Regional Loan Officer, has been promoted to the rank of Vice President. During his seven years at First State, Storer has built strong relationships with customers and has consistently provided trusted financial guidance. His leadership and commitment to serving the communities First State supports have contributed significantly to the bank’s success.

Nathan Holdridge, Regional Loan Ofﬁcer, has been promoted to the rank of Assistant Vice President. In his two years with First State, Holdridge has demonstrated a strong commitment to customer service and relationship banking. His professionalism and dedication have made a positive impact on both customers and colleagues.

“These promotions reﬂect the outstanding work, leadership and commitment that Iris, Brett, and Nathan bring to First State every day,” said Jerry Lenfter, CEO. “We are proud to recognize their achievements and look forward to their continued contributions as they help drive our organization forward.”

First State Bank Nebraska is a $1 billion bank who is committed to showing up for the communities they serve. To learn more, go to 1FSB. BANK or call (402) 421-3535.

Erdkamp,GrovijohnJoinNebraskaCommunity Foundation

Nebraska Community Foundation (NCF) recently welcomed two new employees, Becky Erdkamp and Jillian Grovijohn, to its team of dedicated professionals committed to building stronger communities and a Greater Nebraska.

Both Erdkamp, of Exeter, and Grovijohn, of Norfolk, join NCF as Associate Afﬁliated Fund Development Coordinators. These are new roles that work alongside NCF’s Afﬁliated Fund Development Coordinators as they support a statewide volunteer network in their efforts to develop local leadership capacity and grow community unrestricted endowments for the future.

Erdkamp will primarily work in south central and southeast Nebraska. Prior to joining NCF, she worked at the Nebraska Association of School Boards. Erdkamp earned a Bachelor of Science in Diversiﬁed Agricultural Studies from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and a Master of Science in Technical Communication from Colorado State University. Before joining NCF, Erdkamp volunteered with the Exeter Area Community Foundation Fund, an afﬁliated fund of Nebraska Community Foundation.

Grovijohn will support community-building efforts in northeast Nebraska. Most recently, she worked for the Animal Shelter of Northeast Nebraska as a fundraising and public relations manager. Grovijohn also served as the Hometown Intern for the Howells Community Fund, an afﬁliated fund of Nebraska Community Foundation, for two summers. She earned a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from Wayne State College. For more information, visit nebcommfound.org.

Ann Lawless Celebrates 25 Years with Completely KIDS

This year, Ann Lawless will be celebrating an incredible 25 years with Completely KIDS. What began as a practicum experience has grown into a remarkable career dedicated to serving KIDS and families.

Over the past 25 years, Ann has served as a Jackson Program Coordinator, Community Outreach Worker, Program Manager, and now Chief Program Ofﬁcer, helping shape and grow the programs that serve thousands of children and families each year. Ann’s leadership, vision, and unwavering commitment have been instrumental in the growth of Completely KIDS. Her impact can be seen not only in our programs, but in the countless lives she has touched along the way.

Completely KIDS wants to thank Ann, for 25 years of dedication, leadership, and service. They are grateful for all Ann does for Completely KIDS and our community!

About Completely KIDS

Completely KIDS is a trusted, safe space in the community where children, teens and families can access the support they need, whatever that looks like. Completely KIDS’s meets families where they are and respond with care, consistency and respect. Their purpose is to strengthen families and build pathways to stability and opportunity through holistic, accessible services. Together, we can create a stronger, more connected and successful community where every family has the opportunity to thrive.

For more information visit completelykids.org.

FNBO Adds Chad Tettenborn as Director of Commercial Banking

FNBO has hired Chad Tettenborn as director of Commercial Banking for the Omaha, Lincoln and surrounding markets.

“Chad brings extensive commercial real estate expertise and a strong commitment to serving clients,” said John Grose, Vice President of Community Banking at FNBO. “We’re excited to welcome him to the team and look forward to the value he’ll bring to our customers and communities.”

With more than 20 years of experience in banking and finance, Chad partners with investors, developers and business owners to finance projects that strengthen local communities and support long-term economic growth. He provides strategic guidance and customized financing solutions for commercial property acquisitions, new developments and renovation projects, helping clients confidently navigate complex lending decisions.

“Commercial real estate is about more than ﬁnancing projects. It’s about helping communities grow and creating opportunities for businesses to succeed,” said Tettenborn. “I’m excited to bring that approach to FNBO and support clients throughout eastern Nebraska.”

Additionally, he serves on the Omaha Municipal Land Bank Board and is an active member of the Urban Land Institute. He previously served on the Board of Directors for Kids Can Community Center and continues to serve as a member of its Finance Committee, as well as being actively involved with Saint Margaret Mary Church and School. Tettenborn earned a bachelor’s degree from Nebraska Wesleyan University and an MBA with a concentration in ﬁnance from Creighton University.

Member FDIC.

Grand Island Student Mya Bernal Wins First National Civics Bee Nebraska State Finals

A Barr Middle School student from Grand Island won the ﬁrst National Civics Bee Nebraska State Finals on June 23, earning a trip to the 2026 National Civics Bee competition in Washington, D.C., in October, and a $1,000 prize.

Mya Bernal was among the 17 Nebraska State Finals qualifiers competing in the first state finals hosted by the Nebraska Chamber Foundation at Innovation Campus. Her final round pitch presentation was on the closing of the Tyson beef plant in January and the industry’s impact on the community and state.

The National Civics Bee is aimed at encouraging more young Americans to engage in civics and contribute to their communities.

Organized by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation, the National Civics Bee is an annual nonpartisan civics competition for middle schoolers that increases civic knowledge, skills and disposition among young Americans, their families and communities.

Sixth, 7th and 8th grade students from participating Nebraska public, private, charter and home schools began the competition in January by submitting essays, followed by Nebraska Regional Competitions. The top students from each Regional Competition advanced to the State Finals. The live event featured two rounds of civics questions followed by a Q&A round of ﬁve ﬁnalists pitching their proposals for improving their communities.

Mya will compete in the National Championship in October 2026, where the winner receives a grand prize of a $100,000 contribution to a 529 plan.

For more information on the National Civics Bee, visit: civics. uschamberfoundation.org/national-civics-bee.

Christy Irvin Joins Strictly Business as Art Director

Strictly Business welcomes Christy Irvin as their new Art Director. In this role, Christy leads the design and production of both the Lincoln and Omaha editions of Strictly Business, creating visually engaging publications that highlight the businesses, organizations and professionals shaping Nebraska’s business community.

Christy brings more than 20 years of experience in business management, marketing and creative design. Throughout her career, she has combined strategic business knowledge with a passion for visual communication, helping organizations present their brands in a polished, professional and impactful way. Her background includes leadership in operations, marketing, publications and customer relations across a variety of industries.

“Christy’s unique blend of business experience and creative talent makes her an outstanding addition to our team,” said Paige Zutavern. “We’re excited to have her helping shape the look and feel of Strictly Business as we continue to serve our readers and advertising partners.”

As a Lincoln resident, Christy enjoys spending time with her family, exploring new creative ideas and supporting the local business community. She is excited to join the Strictly Business team and looks forward to helping tell the stories of the people and businesses that make Nebraska a great place to live and work. For more information, you can visit the website at strictly-business.com and strictlybusinessomaha.com.

Centris Federal Credit Union Strengthens Team with a Promotion and New Hire

Centris Federal Credit Union (Centris) is pleased to announce the promotion of Justin Norton to vice president, credit portfolio management and the addition of Vanessa Fuentes as a mortgage loan originator.

In his new role, Norton will continue to build and enhance Centris’s credit reporting and analytics functions. In his previous role as vice president, underwriting, and since joining Centris in 2023, Norton has demonstrated exceptional leadership and technical expertise. He played a key role in developing and administering the credit union’s credit risk data analytics tool, signiﬁcantly improving insight, efﬁciency, and decision-making capabilities across the organization. He also provided strong leadership to the retail, indirect, and mortgage underwriting teams, helping strengthen performance and advance operational effectiveness.

“Justin’s contributions have had a meaningful impact on our organization,” said Rick Pratt, executive vice president, chief credit ofﬁcer. “His leadership, analytical expertise, and commitment to continuous improvement make him well-suited for this expanded role.”

Centris also welcomes Vanessa Fuentes to its mortgage team. With more than 10 years of banking and lending experience, she is dedicated to helping members navigate the homebuying process with confidence. Fuentes provides exceptional service, clear communication, and the education needed for buyers to make informed ﬁnancial decisions.

Her approach with members focuses on making the mortgage process simple, transparent, and tailored to each individual’s unique ﬁnancial journey.

“We are excited to welcome Vanessa to Centris,” said Brian Beard, assistant vice president, mortgage production. “Her experience and passion for helping individuals achieve homeownership make her a valuable addition to our mortgage lending team.”

For more information about Centris Federal Credit Union and its lending services, visit centrisfcu.org.

Greater Omaha Chamber Announces Leadership Omaha Class 49

The Greater Omaha Chamber is proud to announce the members of Leadership Omaha Class 49, continuing nearly ﬁve decades of one of the nation’s longestrunning community leadership programs.

Leadership Omaha brings together professionals from across the region to strengthen their leadership skills, deepen their understanding of Greater Omaha, and build the relationships needed to help move the community forward.

“We are excited to support Class 49 through a year designed to challenge, connect, and prepare them for even greater service to the Greater Omaha community,” said Daniela Rojas Florez, Director of Community Leadership Programs at the Greater Omaha Chamber.

As in previous years, the class was selected by a committee composed of Leadership Omaha alumni and Chamber board members. Selected individuals demonstrated strong community involvement, leadership potential, and a clear commitment to Greater Omaha’s future.

Over the next 10 months, participants will explore issues critical to the region, expand their leadership capacity, and deepen their understanding of community trusteeship. Upon completion, they will join a network of more than 1,900 Leadership Omaha alumni.

Meet the Members of Leadership Omaha Class 49:

Rachael Arens, Amy Augustyn, Katie Bassett, Matthew Boulay, Emily Brewer, Jennifer Chantry, Jeremy Christensen, Nicole Cooper, Craig Cope, Mallory Cranwell, David Dover, Saida Espinoza, Nada Fadul, Richard Featherstone, Joey Felici, Nathan German, Markeshia Grant, Nathan Groninga, Kathleen Headley, Matthew Hubel, Avil Jackson, Candace Jorgensen, Samantha Kaiser, Lindsay Kroll, Nayeli Lopez, Kyle Marler, Victoria Mbachu, Rachel McCown, Lauren Micek Vargas, Philip Murante, Dell Nared, Amanda Novotny, Anne O’Hara, Christina Oldfather, Juan Padilla, John Price, Esmeralda Ramos, Heather Robbins, Lindsay Rone, Andrew Saladino, William Schmidt, Dakotah Smith, Jeanette Weber, Monica Wells, Adam Wiese, Kit Williams, Chris Woodhouse, Tara Wrighton, Brittany Young, Xin Zhao.

For more information on the Greater Omaha Chamber, please visit omahachamber.org.

Samantha Mosser Named CEO of Bankers Trust

Samantha Mosser officially became President and CEO of Bankers Trust, Iowa’s largest privately held community bank, on July 1. The move was first shared in March of this year, upon announcement of prior CEO Don Coffin’s retirement.

Mosser was named President of Bankers Trust in July 2025, after serving over three years as the bank’s Nebraska Market President, where she was a key architect in growing the bank’s presence from a small loan production ofﬁce with average earning assets of $289 million in 2021 to a full-service location with average earning assets of more than $825 million today.

Mosser is a 28-year veteran of the banking industry, having held roles in executive leadership, commercial and commercial real estate lending, private banking, mortgage, and more.

“The board is conﬁdent that under Samantha’s leadership, the bank will continue to thrive, delivering exceptional customer service and sustaining a workplace where our people can excel,” said John Ruan, Chairman of Bankers Trust.

“It is an honor to serve as President and CEO and I’m extremely grateful for the trust placed in me by the Board,” Mosser added. “Bankers Trust has spent more than a century building lasting relationships and helping our customers and communities succeed. I look forward to working alongside our talented team to honor that legacy while driving continued success for the future.”

Learn more at BankersTrust.com.

Outlook Enrichment is Welcoming Dana Medeiros to the Outlook Enrichment Board of Directors

Outlook Enrichment asks you to join them in welcoming Dana Medeiros to the Outlook Enrichment Board of Directors.

When asked why she chose to join the board, Dana shared, “After volunteering at the Vision Beyond Sight Gala for a couple of years, I got to meet so many incredible people who are passionate about this mission. Last year, I had the chance to spend more time with a board member and hear their perspective; it honestly stuck with me. It made me realize I wanted to go beyond volunteering and be more directly involved in the impact Outlook Enrichment is making. Joining the board felt like a natural next step to give back in a more meaningful way.”

Outlook Enrichment wants to thank Dana for her continued support and for choosing to deepen her commitment to their mission through board service. They are excited to have her on this journey with them.

About Outlook Enrichment

Outlook Enrichment supports people who are blind or have low vision, helping them build independence at work and in daily life. Based in Omaha, they are part of Outlook Collaborative—and serve nearly 15,000 youth and adults in the metro area. Outlook Enrichment provides adaptive technology training, independent living skills programs, support groups and inclusive recreation, ensuring people facing vision loss have the support to keep participating in the things they love. Learn more at outlooken.org.

Keeping Up With Y u for 120 years

Lincoln Federal Savings Bank: Helping Individuals and Businesses Thrive for 120 Years

Lincoln Federal Savings Bank offers the banking services you need most, including personal checking and savings accounts, business banking, and credit cards. While many people know us for our mortgage lending, our unique structure through our holding company allows us to do much more than traditional banking.

Working with local partners, we help transform undeveloped land into thriving neighborhoods and business districts, including Wilderness Hills. We also sell residential and commercial lots and offer lending solutions such as commercial real estate, construction, bridge, home equity, and mortgage loans. From financing a home to supporting a development project, we're here to help build stronger communities. THEN NOW

120 YEARS OF GROWTH

What began as a neighborhood savings and loan has grown into a full-service financial institution serving generations of Nebraska families and businesses.

Personal Banking Like You Remember

It's the jingle you may have grown up hearing on local channels. We believe that Personal Banking Like You Remember means greeting you by name, with a handshake and a smile. From a child's first savings account to their first mortgage and beyond, we're here through every stage of life.

Building More Than Banking Relationships Looking Ahead

Our bank has been here for 120 years - Leo Schumacher, past President and CEO, once said, "we bring people home." We develop land, build neighborhoods, and offer lending solutions that help families and businesses thrive.

Banking will continue to evolve - our commitment to you will not. We will continue to invest in our people, technology and our communities so we can help you reach your goals for generations to come.

While the way people bank will continue to evolve, our commitment to relationships will not.

- Trent Meyer, SVP/CFO

Support Autism Action Partnership’s A Vintage Affaire XVIII Gala

Autism Action Partnership (AAP) invites the community to participate in their annual gala, A Vintage Affaire XVIII, on September 26. Whether you become a sponsor, purchase tickets or donate an item to their silent auction, your support makes a meaningful impact on the autism community.

They offer sponsorship opportunities for organizations and individuals looking to further their mission while receiving valuable recognition. Sponsors receive beneﬁts such as social media recognition, logo placement on the event website, a complimentary table for eight guests and more.

Ticket holders and sponsorship guests will enjoy an evening of wine tasting, a silent auction, dinner, an inspiring program and a live auction at The Relevant Center in Elkhorn.

If you are unable to attend but would still like to get involved, consider supporting their silent auction. You can gather items for baskets, solicit donations from local businesses or create and donate a handmade item. Donations can be dropped off at AAP’s ofﬁce. Every contribution helps make A Vintage Affaire a success.

Be part of a night that supports AAP’s mission to improve the quality of life for persons on the Autism Spectrum and their families.

Learn more and get involved: AAP.givesmart.com.

Tee off at Keep Nebraska Beautiful’s 30th Annual

Golf Tournament!

Keep Nebraska Beautiful invites you to join their 30th annual scramble golf tournament! On September 10, 2026, the annual Golf for the Environment Tournament will be held from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Woodland Hills Golf Course in Eagle, NE.

Golfers will enjoy a grab-and-go breakfast and Bloody Mary Bar before the 9 a.m. shotgun start. They can experience the beauty of Woodland Hills Golf Course, be serenaded by a local bagpipe player and enter to win exclusive rafﬂe prizes and capture the moment with complimentary team photos.

This four-person scramble tournament will feature mulligans and exciting hole contests. After the round, hear from KNB’s CEO and Board President while enjoying a catered lunch. Participate in a live auction, followed by the announcement of rafﬂe winners, hole prize winners, and tournament champions.

This is Keep Nebraska Beautiful’s largest fundraiser of the year, and all of its proceeds go towards upholding their mission to enhance, preserve and beautify Nebraska by developing and managing programs and partnerships with statewide afﬁliates, private industry leaders and citizens who share a passion for the environment. The Golf for the Environment Tournament will fund KNB’s programs to further their vision of a clean, green and beautiful Nebraska.

Registration is now open! To secure a spot or become a sponsor, visit knb.org or call (402) 486-4562.

Child Saving Institute Featured in Open Omaha on August 8

More Than $30 Million Raised by UWM

Child Saving Institute is proud to announce that they are a featured venue at Open Omaha 2026. The event is a free, city-wide open house that features local venues and aims to promote exploration of the Omaha community.

The Child Saving Institute invites community members to explore their newly remodeled space and learn about their programs and the community impact. They provide care and safe spaces to children and families including early childhood education, mental health care, community-based services and residential treatment. . With Open Omaha, you have the chance to see where the magic happens and meet some of the staff who make it possible.

The doors are open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday, August 8. They are located at Mary Holland Campus, 4545 Dodge St. in Omaha.

For more information on the Child Saving Institute, please visit their website at childsaving.org.

American Heart Association Urges Extra Precautions as Temperatures Climb Nationwide

As summer heat intensiﬁes across the U.S., the American Heart Association is warning that soaring temperatures don’t just make people uncomfortable — they can put serious strain on the heart and increase the risk of life-threatening complications.

“Heat forces the heart to work harder,” said Chris Shives, Executive Director, American Heart Association – Nebraska. “When your body is trying to cool down, your heart rate increases and your blood vessels expand. For people with heart disease, and even those who are otherwise healthy, that added strain can become dangerous very quickly.”

Why Heat is Hard on Your Heart

When temperatures climb, the body sweats to cool itself which can lead to ﬂuid loss and dehydration. At the same time, the heart must pump more blood to regulate body temperature. Together, these changes can put signiﬁcant stress on the cardiovascular system.

Protect yourself in extreme heat by avoiding peak heat hours, dressing smart, staying hydrated and taking breaks.

Heat exhaustion symptoms may include headache, cool pale or clammy skin, fast but weak pulse, dizziness or fainting, weakness or muscle cramps, and nausea or vomiting.

Stay Active — But Stay Safe

Physical activity remains essential for heart health, even in the summer months. However, in the heat of summer it may be best to try shifting exercise to early morning or evening hours or move workouts indoors to air-conditioned spaces.

Learn more at heart.org.

Thanks to the generosity and caring spirit of the Omaha-Council Bluffs metro, United Way of the Midlands (UWM) closed its ﬁscal year on June 30, 2026 – raising more than $30 million for our community.

“At a time when more families are feeling ﬁnancial pressure, UWM is honored to serve as a trusted partner,” said Shawna Forsberg, UWM president and CEO. “We bring people, resources and organizations together to respond to needs and strengthen the network of support across the metro.”

During the last ﬁscal year, UWM:

• Raised more than $30 million to support local programs, initiatives and direct services.

• Maintained a 93% efﬁciency ratio, reﬂecting continued stewardship and responsibility.

• Invested in a network of 150 programs, partnerships and initiatives addressing healthy community, youth opportunity, ﬁnancial security and community resiliency.

• Responded to more than 388,000 contacts through 211, connecting people with thousands of programs and services.

• Expanded support for seniors, military members and young families through community navigation and the 211 Nebraska Warmline.

• Continued to grow JAG Nebraska with plans to serve more than 5,500 students during the 2026-2027 school year.

• Added 84 new partnerships, connecting people and organizations with opportunities to get involved.

• Reached 405 Tocqueville Society members, surpassing Mr. Warren Buffett’s Tocqueville Society Challenge and increasing his generous campaign match.

• Supported more than 57,000 volunteer hours through custom events and days of service.

• Responded quickly when new needs emerged, including working with Mayor Ewing during the temporary disruption of SNAP beneﬁts and distributing $100,000 to four organizations.

For more information, go to UnitedWayMidlands.org.

YMCA of Greater Omaha Announces Annual Health Fair September 11

The YMCA of Greater Omaha is happy to announce their free Fall Health Fair at the Sarpy YMCA on Friday, September 11 from 8:30-11:30 a.m.

The Health Fair exists to inspire older adults to continue to live healthy. The event will feature wellness exhibits, health screenings, hands-on activities, and community resources so healthy living can last long after the event concludes.

The YMCA is excited to uplift the community by helping build healthier habits, strengthen connections, and inspire individuals to stay active.

For more information about the event, please visit metroymca.org/ events/2026-sarpy-ymca-health-fair.

For more information about the YMCA of Greater Omaha, please visit metroymca.org.

Open Door Mission Celebrates New Life Recovery Program Graduates September 12

Open Door Mission would like to extend invitation to the New Life Program graduation on September 12 from 10-11 a.m. The graduation will take place at the Open Door Mission Hospitality Center. If you can’t make the event, you can join them live on Facebook to watch the celebration.

The New Life Recovery Program graduates are individuals who have been seeking shelter in Open Door Mission’s Garland Thompson Men’s Center and Lydia House. They will each share testimonials on their experience throughout the program.

The New Life Recovery Program includes life skill classes, group therapy, community engagement, and structure for those struggling with addiction. Students are provided with helpful resources and connect with Jesus, themselves, and their community as they work towards successful recovery.

To learn more about Open Door Mission, please visit their website at opendoormission.org.

Back to School: Managing Screen Time, Project Harmony

As summer comes to an end and families prepare for the start of another school year, it is important to reestablish screen time limits. Creating appropriate rules and expectations around screen time may seem like a daunting task but is critical in keeping children safe online.

Helpful tips for families:

• Use a social media or technology contract: Make sure to have a conversation so your children can understand the rules and have the opportunity to ask questions. (Templates are available on the Project Harmony website)

• Be clear with other parents: Make sure your screen time limits apply to other people’s houses.

• Have regular, ongoing conversations about online safety: A one-time discussion is not enough. Talk to your children about what they like to do online and what apps their friends are using. This way you can address issues as they arise, rather than being surprised by them.

• Monitor your child’s online footprint: Different age levels may have different levels of monitoring. This may mean reviewing the apps downloaded, following your children on Instagram or even doing spot checks of their devices.

“Safety is a conversation and a shared responsibility among all of us,” says Angela Roeber, Project Harmony Chief of Communications. “It is important that we talk with our children and help them understand how to make responsible and safe choices about what they post and/or share.”

Project Harmony offers an Online Safety training that specializes in educating parents, caregivers and educators with the knowledge and resources needed to protect children from online dangers including predators, cyber bullies and threats related to gaming, social networking and mobile devices. Register for the upcoming August 27 training at ProjectHarmony.com.

Connected Roots Care Center Puts on Big Dreams Festival August 22

On Saturday, August 22, Connected Roots Care Center will be putting on their Big Dreams festival for Omaha families. There will be food trucks, a kid’s fun zone, local vendors and acts, a fun run/5k, face painting and more in Stinson Park from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

The event will feature Peppa Pig and her brother George, as well as comedy disco dancers KOO KOO. There will be many chances to have interactive experiences and discovery, all designed with the intention of creating a welcoming and inclusive experience.

Connected Roots Care Center is always searching for volunteers; it takes a village to bring an event like this to life. Please visit tinyurl. com/VolunteerCRCC to register as a volunteer.

For more information on Connected Roots Care Center, please visit crccomaha.org.

For 35 years, CRCC has served the Omaha area through inclusive education, specialized nursing, rehab therapy, and behavioral health services for children and young adults from birth through age 21. Big Dreams reﬂ ects the organization’s commitment to creating a community where every child feels welcomed, valued, and empowered to thrive.

FireﬂyAwarded$63,000fromUnitedWayof the Midlands to Support Local Families

Fireﬂ y is honored to receive $63,000 in funding from United Way of the Midlands (UWM) to strengthen three programs serving families in Pottawattamie County: $13,000 for the Healthy Pregnancy Program, $25,000 for the Mobile Wellness Unit and $25,000 for Early Head Start Home Visitation.

These investments will improve access to critical health and family support services for children and parents facing economic, transportation and healthcare barriers. The Healthy Pregnancy Program provides home-based nursing, care coordination and maternal mental health support. The Mobile Wellness Unit delivers preventive health and oral health screenings, connects families to medical and dental homes, and expands school-based oral health services. Early Head Start Home Visitation offers evidence-based parent education, developmental screenings and individualized support that promotes healthy child development and family stability.

United Way’s investment will help more families access care earlier, improve child health and school readiness, strengthen parenting skills and connect families with essential community resources.

One participant in Fireﬂy’s Healthy Pregnancy Program shared that regular home visits and support helped her overcome transportation barriers, stay connected to prenatal care and welcome a healthy baby with conﬁdence.

Fireﬂy is grateful to United Way of the Midlands for investing in healthier families and brighter futures across our community. More information on Firefly can be found at firefly.kids and information about United Way of the Midlands can be found at unitedwaymidlands.org.

Community Foundation For Western Iowa Celebrates Vision Malvern’s First Home Sale

Congratulations to Vision Malvern on the sale of their first home constructed through the Revitalize Southwest Iowa housing initiative - marking a significant milestone in the organization’s efforts to increase quality housing opportunities in the Malvern community. The newly constructed 1,603-square-foot ranch-style home built by Mark Hughes Construction, is located in the Fairview Hills Estates subdivision in Malvern, Iowa, and features three bedrooms, two bathrooms and modern finishes.

Generous funding for this innovative initiative was provided by the Charles E. Lakin Foundation Fund for Malvern, Iowa, and was established in 2024 at the Community Foundation for Western Iowa to enhance local housing, childcare and educational causes. The Community Foundation for Western Iowa manages and administers the foundation fund, an Endow Iowa Field of Interest Fund. With assistance from the Community Foundation’s Housing and Revitalization Committee, the Fund helps support Vision Malvern’s work through impact investing, fund administration and annual granting.

“The Housing and Revitalization Committee brought together public and private industry professionals to establish underwriting standards, due diligence requirements and reporting practices that help position these projects for long-term success,” said Sheryl Garst, Chair of the Housing and Revitalization Committee at the Community Foundation for Western Iowa. “We are excited to see this investment strategy creating tangible results for Malvern residents and supporting the community’s continued growth.”

Read more about the project at: bit.ly/VisionMalvernHomeSale.

Community Invited to Help 500 Local KIDS Stay Warm This Winter

While it may still feel hot outside, winter will be here before we know it. Completely KIDS is asking the community to help ensure every child is warm, safe and ready for the season by donating new winter coats during its annual Winter Coat Drive, August 10 through October 9.

As a trusted place in the community, Completely KIDS removes barriers so KIDS and families can thrive. Their annual donation drives provide essential items that help children stay healthy, engaged in school and prepared for everyday life.

With Nebraska’s unpredictable weather and the reality that children quickly outgrow last year’s coat, the need is constant. A new winter coat does more than provide warmth. It helps children stay healthy, attend school and experience the conﬁdence that comes from knowing someone cares.

Completely KIDS hopes to collect 500 new winter coats in sizes Child XS through Adult XL.

New coats may be dropped off at Completely KIDS, 2566 St. Mary’s Avenue, Omaha. Supporters can also purchase a coat through their Amazon Wish List (a.co/018KM6xW) and have it shipped directly to Completely KIDS, or make a suggested donation of $25-$30 at completelykids.org. Please write “Coat Drive” in the memo ﬁeld.

Individuals, families, businesses, schools, churches and community groups are encouraged to host a coat collection. To learn more or organize a drive, contact icastillo@completelykids.org.

Together, we can help every child enter winter warm, conﬁdent and ready to succeed.

YMCA of Greater Omaha Hosted for the 17th Annual World’s

Largest Swimming Lesson™

The Gretna Crossing YMCA recently joined communities around the world as an ofﬁ cial host site for the 17th Annual World’s Largest Swimming Lesson™, providing free water safety education to local families. For the second consecutive year, the YMCA welcomed participants of all ages for two introductory 30-minute lessons focused on essential water safety skills and drowning prevention.

The event was made possible through a $4,000 grant from the Gretna Community Foundation, allowing the YMCA to offer this important program at no cost to participants.

“Water safety is a lifesaving skill that every child and family should have access to,” said Brandon Brugger, Executive Director of the Gretna Crossing YMCA. “Thanks to the generous support of the Gretna Community Foundation, we’re proud to provide this opportunity free of charge and help more families build conﬁdence in and around the water. Even a single lesson can make a meaningful difference.”

The Gretna Crossing YMCA hopes to continue growing participation each year, expanding access to water safety education throughout the community.

Learn more about YMCA swim lessons here: metroymca.org/aquatics.

We proudly serve Nebraska’s youth in care by providing the opportunity to personally shop for a new complete seasonal wardrobe and comfort items in a respectful, tailored setting. Every kid deserves the dignity and joy of choice.

Autism Action Partnership Proper Academy: Interview Bootcamp

Autism Action Partnership will be hosting an Interview Skills Workshop for adults with autism from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Friday, August 28th. Interviews can be stressful, but being prepared makes all the difference. In this hands-on workshop, you’ll learn what to expect during the hiring process and practice the skills you need to interview with conﬁdence.

A few important parts of the workshop include walking through the hiring process, watching a live interview demonstration, practicing answering interview questions and practicing your skills with mock interviews. To end the workshop, Live Well Dress Well will help each participant choose professional interview clothing, and everyone will leave with a free interview outfit. By the end of the day, you’ll have the skills, confidence and professional attire to make a great first impression at your next interview.

The event will be taking place at the Autism Action Partnership Ofﬁce, registration is $15. For more information visit autismaction. org or contact them at info@autismaction.org.

Vision Maker Media Celebrates 50 Years of Educating Audiences

For 50 years, Vision Maker Media has brought powerful Indigenous stories to life. During this milestone year, they are celebrating with “Everything is Connected,” a year-long ﬁlm festival spotlighting Native heritage, identity and community through documentaries, narrative ﬁlms and shorts. Experience the festival in person or online.

“The Land Returns” screens at The Ross Theater on August 10. This compelling ﬁlm follows Native Nations reclaiming land from farmers, local governments, and environmental advocates, revealing how grassroots movements for restitution and reconciliation are restoring what once belonged to Indian Nations. A Q&A with the ﬁlmmakers follows the screening.

Get your free tickets at theross.org.

If you cannot be there in person, August’s online screenings are for you: “Courage,” “Medicine Ball” and “Without Arrows.” These powerful ﬁlms are connected by themes of identity, resilience and belonging. Through dance, sport and family, these stories show how Native people draw strength from ancestors, community and place to navigate today’s challenges, nurturing healing and hope along the way.

Watch now at visionmakermedia.org/vision-maker-ﬁlm-festivaleverything-is-connected-august-streaming.

Extending the idea of hope rooted in tradition, August’s iNative Shorts for Kids presents the theme, “Native American Heritage: The Story of Our Seeds.” Each episode delves into how Native communities are restoring heirloom seeds and traditional foods, strengthening cultural connections while supporting healthier futures for generations to come.

Watch at youtube.com/@iNativeShortsforKids

For more information, please visit visionmakermedia.org.

Connected Roots Care Center Helps Children Thrive:FreeCommunitySessiononBehavioral Strategies for School Success

Connected Roots Care Center (CRCC) invites parents, caregivers, educators and community members to attend the next session in its Rooted in Resilience educational series, Foundations for School Success: Behavioral Supports that Make a Difference, on Thursday, Sept. 10, at 6 p.m. The free session will be held virtually.

Led by Teri McGill and Ali Sweitzer from ESU3, the presentation will focus on practical behavioral strategies that help children thrive in school settings. Participants will learn approaches that support positive behavior, strengthen collaboration between families and educators and build a strong foundation for learning success.

Rooted in Resilience is designed to empower families with expert knowledge, practical tools and community support. Through presentations led by professionals and community partners, the series explores topics related to parenting, advocacy, child development and well-being, giving families clear, accessible strategies they can use in everyday life.

Inspired by CRCC’s mission of supporting children of all abilities, Rooted in Resilience is open to everyone. Whether you’re raising a child, working with children or simply looking to better support families in your community, you’re invited to join the conversation.

The event is free, but registration is required. Visit tinyurl.com/CRCCSept to learn more and register.

NebraskaSportsCouncilKicksOff FallSeason of Games in August

The fall season begins with the Lincoln Corporate Games on Aug. 8 and the Omaha Corporate Games on Aug. 12. Running through October, the Corporate Games bring local businesses together to compete in a variety of athletic and recreational events while promoting teamwork, employee wellness and company pride. Hundreds of employees from companies across eastern Nebraska will participate in events ranging from volleyball and pickleball to trivia and cornhole.

The action continues Aug. 28-30 with the 402 Bash Men’s Slowpitch Softball Tournament at the Sandhills Global Youth Complex in Lincoln. Teams from across the region will compete on the complex’s all-turf ﬁelds during three days of competition.

Families can then lace up their running shoes for the Pumpkin Run on Sept. 27 in Lincoln’s Railyard. The youth one-mile fun run encourages healthy habits while providing a fun and memorable experience for children of all ages.

The fall lineup concludes Nov. 14-15 with the Heartland Havoc Wrestling Tournament at the Sandhills Global Event Center in Lincoln. Wrestlers of all ages and skill levels will compete in one of Nebraska’s premier preseason wrestling events, attracting athletes from across the Midwest for two days of competition.

Registration is now open for all fall events. For schedules, registration information and additional event details, visit the NebraskaSportsCouncil.com.

JennieEdmundsonFoundationHonors4Spirit of Courage Recipients

On Aug. 1 the 24th annual Spirit of and Courage fundraising event was held at the Mid-America Center. This year, they recognized four amazing individuals: Bob Martens, Jennifer Potmesil, Kathy Racine and Abby Robinson. During the evening guests had the opportunity to meet these incredible individuals.

Kicking off the Spirit of Courage event, a celebrity golf tournament was held at Dodge Riverside Golf Club. That evening, a magniﬁcent gala was held where the four distinguished honorees shared their courageous stories through videos and their personal thank you. During the evening, guests took part in silent and oral auctions, rafﬂes, wine pull, dinner and more.

They are immensely proud to say 100% of the net proceeds raised goes to the Methodist Jennie Edmundson Hospital—Spirit of Courage Cancer Charitable Patient Care Fund through the JE Foundation. These gifts are crucial in providing ﬁnancial support to cancer patients facing economic challenges. The funds go to help uninsured and underinsured patients needing help to cover expenses associated with their diagnosis and treatment of cancer. They also go to aid with their medications, treatments, and deductibles, as well as everyday living expenses such as groceries, rent, and gas.

If you were unable to attend the Spirit of Courage fundraiser and would like to give a donation, there is still time to make a gift through the “Fund a Need”. Please visit the website at jehfoundation.org, or call (712) 396-6040 for more information.

It Takes Two: Dual Language Book Drive Beneﬁts Educare of Omaha, Inc.

Community members are invited to help Educare of Omaha, Inc. build its library of dual language books for infant, toddler and preschool classrooms during the It Takes Two Book Drive this back-to-school season.

Dual language books help young children build early reading skills while also supporting home language, culture and family connection. When children see and hear more than one language in the classroom, it helps them feel included, valued and ready to learn. These books also give teachers more tools to support children as they grow their vocabulary, listening skills and love of reading.

“Back-to-school season is a great time to make sure our classrooms have the books and materials children need to learn,” Executive Director Rafel O. Hart said. “Dual language books help children learn new words, celebrate their home language and culture, and build strong early literacy skills. They also help families feel welcome and represented in our classrooms.”

To participate in the drive, community members can shop Educare of Omaha’s Amazon Wish List and ship books directly to the organization at a.co/05aK3ACI.

Educare of Omaha, Inc. serves more than 650 infants, toddlers and preschoolers — and their families — each year by providing highquality, year-round early education at ﬁve early learning schools located in North and South Omaha, and also operating a home visiting program. Learn more at educareomaha.org.

At Avenue Scholars Boot Camp, 72 Young People Discover Their Future

This June, 72 Omaha-area high school students completed Avenue Scholars’ four-week summer Boot Camp, an immersive career exploration program designed to prepare young people for future careers.

The program introduced high school students, mostly incoming juniors, to careers in the skilled trades, healthcare and transportation through hands-on training, industry tours and professional skill development. Scholars also earned certiﬁcations, built practical skills and connected with local employers.

Avenue Scholars partners with area schools, colleges and businesses to help students discover career pathways that lead to stable, selfsustaining employment. Boot Camp serves as an introduction to the organization’s broader career preparation program, which provides career coaching, workplace experiences and postsecondary support, starting in high school and continuing through career entry.

This year’s Boot Camp was made possible through partnerships with nearly 40 local organizations.

For more information, visit avescholars.org.

Outlook Enrichment Tees Up a Summer of Community & Connection

Outlook Enrichment’s recent annual Tee It Up Fore Sight golf tournament was a hole-in-one! Celebrating its 22nd year with a sold-out ﬁeld of golfers, the tournament brought together friendly competition, meaningful connections and a shared commitment to empowering people who are blind or have low vision.

Among this year’s golf tourney participants were four golfers who are legally blind or have low vision. Outlook Enrichment associate Ross Pollpeter and Outlook Nebraska associate Marisa Ethofer were joined by Outlook Enrichment clients Brad Lapointe and Anna Weber (who drives from Missouri to get help at Outlook Enrichment). They prepared for the tournament since January through Outlook’s Stanley M. Truhlsen, Jr. Blind Golfers Clinic. Hosted at Outlook Enrichment, the clinic gives golfers who are blind or have low vision the opportunity to build golﬁng skills and community. The clinic will resume in the fall with details to follow.

Join Outlook Enrichment on August 23 at the fun Bags and Brews Cornhole Fundraising Tournament. Proceeds support Outlook Enrichment and help cover the cost of programs and services that create opportunities for Outlook’s clients.

To kick off the cornhole tournament, attendees will take part in a complimentary “blind toss” round while wearing sleep shades or vision simulation goggles. The experience offers a meaningful glimpse into the daily experiences of Outlook’s clients and associates who are blind or have low vision.

For more information, registration and sponsorship opportunities for the Bags and Brews Cornhole Fundraising Tournament, visit outlooken. org/event/bags-brews-cornhole-tournament-2026/.

Get involved with Outlook Enrichment offerings by visiting outlooken. org/oe.

BusinessesInvitedtoSponsorOmahaChildren ThroughStephenCenter’sSixthAnnualBack-

Transferring Your Donor-Advised Fund to Midlands Community Foundation

to-School Campaign

Stephen Center is proud to launch its ﬁfth annual Back-to-School Campaign, during the ﬁrst week of August, prior to the start of the school year, helping children living in its Emergency Shelter and Permanent Supportive Housing program begin the school year with confidence. Through the campaign, community members and businesses can sponsor a child for $200, providing a personalized shopping experience for new school clothes, shoes, a backpack and essential supplies.

Unlike a traditional school supply drive, each child is paired with a volunteer and given the opportunity to shop for the items they need most, fostering conﬁdence, dignity and excitement for the new school year. For many children, it is the ﬁrst time they have been able to choose their own clothing and school supplies.

Local businesses are encouraged to sponsor one child, several children or an entire family while also providing volunteer teams to participate in the shopping event. Every sponsorship directly equips a child with the tools needed for a successful school year while creating a memorable experience that reminds them their community believes in their future.

Stephen Center hopes to sponsor approximately 25 children this year and welcomes community partners interested in making a lasting impact before the ﬁrst day of school. For more information, please visit Stephencenter.org or call (402) 731-0238.

American Red Cross Declares Emergency Blood Shortage

Midlands Community Foundation (MCF) partners with donors from all walks of life who are passionate about supporting the charities and causes that matter most to them. MCF is happy to offer guidance from professionals who know the region ﬁrsthand.

A logical step for many donors as time goes on is transferring a donoradvised fund from a national sponsor or commercial provider to MCF. Midlands Community Foundation wants to give you an overview of how this works.

The ﬁrst step is easy, connecting with the Midlands Community Foundation to learn more. Their team is happy to take the time to learn more about your charitable interests and design a fund that reﬂects your vision. The next steps go hand in hand, opening your new donor-advised fund and requesting a transfer from your existing fund. This process is designed to be simple and the MCF staff will walk you through it.

To ensure everything is correct, MCF will ask to verify your information and determine the amount you would like to transfer. Some donors choose to move their full balance while others prefer to transfer only a portion and move assets over time.

The ﬁnal and most important step is to begin making an impact close to home. The MCF team is always available to serve as a resource and welcomes to opportunity to talk with you and help you explore your options.

For more information visit midlandscommunity.org.

The American Red Cross is urging eligible donors to give blood immediately to help overcome an emergency blood shortage. The blood supply dropped nearly 25% in June, creating a growing gap between available donations and hospital demand. The shortage comes during the height of summer trauma season, when hospitals often see an increase in serious injuries, accidents and medical emergencies that require lifesaving blood transfusions.

Red Cross ofﬁcials report that blood distributions to hospitals are currently nearly 3,500 units higher per week than expected. At the same time, donations have declined due to busy summer schedules, temporary illnesses and the end of the school year, which resulted in approximately 38,000 fewer donations from young donors between April and June.

Unlike many medical supplies, blood cannot be manufactured or stockpiled. It must be continually replenished because it has a limited shelf life, with some products such as platelets lasting only a few days. A stable blood supply is essential for emergency rooms, cancer treatments, surgeries, maternity care and other critical medical services.

The Red Cross encourages all eligible donors to help rebuild the blood supply by scheduling an appointment today through the Blood Donor App, visiting RedCrossBlood.org or calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767).

Child Saving Institute (CSI) is inviting the community to come enjoy a night of good food, live music and cold drinks all for a great cause. Join CSI at Culinary Remix on Friday, Aug. 21 from 6 to 10 p.m. at the MidAmerica Center.

This unique fundraiser pairs a lively night out with meaningful impact, supporting children and families served through CSI, including youth ﬁnding safety, stability and hope on the Children’s Square campus.

For just $75, guests will enjoy a specialty cocktail hour, delicious food and live entertainment from The Day Traders, a high energy ‘90s cover band. Attendees will also celebrate two outstanding community champions as Debra Kaplan and the Council Bluffs Police Department receive the legacy Jason Award for their commitment to serving local children and families.

This year’s ‘90s event theme invites guests to relive the sounds, ﬂavors and fashions of the decade with red-carpet-worthy looks.

Every ticket purchased helps provide critical services, healing and opportunity for children who need it most. Individuals and businesses are encouraged to purchase tickets or explore sponsorship opportunities before the event sells out.

Purchase your tickets (before it’s too late!) at childsaving.org/ culinary-remix.

Santa Monica House Announces the 2027 Spring Fundraiser

Santa Monica House is pleased to announce a Save the Date for the 2027 Spring Fundraiser. Mark your calendars for Saturday, March 27, 2027, as we return to the DC Centre in Omaha for one of our signature annual fundraising events.

Supporters, community partners and friends are encouraged to reserve their place early by purchasing tickets or tables through santamonicahouse.org. The event will feature a morning of food, fellowship and celebration while raising critical support for women in recovery and the programs that help transform lives.

This year’s fundraiser will include a special appearance by Monica the Flamingo, the ofﬁcial Santa Monica House mascot, who will help co-host this Flamazing event. Guests can look forward to themed activities and a fun, welcoming atmosphere inspired by Monica’s signature style. In the spirit of the occasion, attendees are encouraged to “think pink” for spring.

Additional event details, sponsorship opportunities, and program announcements will be shared in the coming months. We look forward to welcoming our community together for an inspiring morning dedicated to recovery, resilience and hope.

Tickets and tables are available now at santamonicahouse.org.

Latino Economic Development

Council Announces 2026 Adelante Gala and The Latino Summit

The Latino Economic Development Council (LEDC) invites the community to two signature events this season celebrating Latino excellence, leadership and momentum in South Omaha and beyond.

The 2026 Adelante Gala takes place Thursday, Sept. 3, from 5:30 to 9:30 p.m. at the Tenaska Center for Arts Engagement, 1115 Dodge Street. El evento del año brings together more than 500 community leaders, business owners, public ofﬁcials and changemakers for a night of live music, dancing, inspiring speakers and delicious food. As LEDC’s most important fundraiser, the gala fuels small business development, workforce pathways and youth leadership. This year’s celebration carries special meaning. In June, LEDC and its partners broke ground on Plaza de la Raza at 24th and N Streets, the ﬁrst phase of the Adelante Initiative transforming the heart of the historic South 24th Street district into a vibrant public gathering space.

The weekend prior, LEDC presents The Latino Summit on Saturday, August 29, from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. at the Omaha Central Library, 7205 Dodge Street, featuring panel discussions, workshops, and networking focused on education, small business growth, civic engagement, and immigration resources.

Tickets for both events are available on Eventbrite. For gala sponsorship opportunities, contact maria@latinoedc.org.

Open Door Mission Seeks Sponsors for their Love Your Neighbor Open House Celebration

Open Door Mission is rolling out the red carpet as we celebrate 72 years of breaking the cycle of homelessness and poverty while inspiring HOPE for lasting change. Join us for our Love Your Neighbor Open House Celebration, a free event, at Westside Church on Thursday, September 17. The open house is 5:15 – 7:30p.m. with a short program at 6:30p.m. Open Door Mission is looking for individuals, groups and businesses who would like to sponsor this milestone event. Go to opendoormission.org/events/love-your-neighbor-celebration/ for more information on sponsorship packages or to RSVP for your free ticket.

About Open Door Mission

Open Door Mission is a Gospel Rescue Mission that meets the needs of individuals and families while inspiring HOPE for lasting change. Each day, Open Door Mission’s campus offers 917 safe shelter beds to homeless men, women and children, serves over 5,366 nutritious meals and provides preventative measures to more than 1,270 people living in poverty.

For more information, please visit opendoormission.org, or contact Gwynne Gonnerman at (402) 829-1536 or ggonnerman@ opendoormission.org.

UWM To Kick Off 2026-2027 Campaign

On Thursday, August 20, United Way of the Midlands (UWM) will ofﬁcially kick off its 2026-2027 campaign at the Scott Conference Center on the University of Nebraska-Omaha campus. The annual campaign plays a critical role in maintaining a strong network of nonproﬁt programs and direct services that help people through life’s challenges and create opportunities for families across the Omaha-Council Bluffs metro to thrive.

The event will feature a continental breakfast and remarks from 2026-2027 Campaign Chair and CEO of Scoular Paul Maass and United Way of the Midlands President and CEO Shawna Forsberg – and local business leaders and community members are all invited to attend.

Hosted by Scoular, the morning will also include a Community Impact Panel Discussion, featuring individuals from local nonproﬁts who will share ﬁrsthand perspectives on challenges facing families in the metro and how UWM-funded programs are making an impact.

“In a ﬂuid landscape of rising demand and shifting resources, UWM continues to bring people, resources and organizations together to respond to ever-changing needs,” said Forsberg. “We are so excited to launch the next campaign with Paul and Julie Maass and the team at Scoular leading the way. The team they have brought together will inspire more people to get involved, give back and turn their care for community into results that make a difference.”

For more information about United Way’s 2026-2027 Campaign Kickoff and to register for the event, go to UnitedWayMidlands. org/Events.

SantaMonicaHouseSpeakstoMCCStudents about Recovery Services

Santa Monica House is thrilled to have had the opportunity to speak at Metropolitan Community College. Students from MCC’s Community Resources Summer Quarter course learned about the care that happens at Santa Monica House, as well as challenges women face in recovery and victory stories that continue to give meaning to their resources.

The students asked thoughtful questions and engaged in meaningful discussions. They ended the session by writing encouraging cards for the women residing in Santa Monica House’s Halfway House.

Santa Monica House is grateful for opportunities to share meaningful stories and reduce stigma around women in addiction recovery, creating new community leaders and advocates.

For more information on Santa Monica House, please visit their website at santamonicahouse.org.

Fireﬂy Asks for Book Donations to Fill Their Library

Every year, Firefly gives thousands of books to local children and families because every child deserves the chance to build a lifelong love of reading. Thanks to the community’s incredible generosity, they’ve shared so many books that Firefly’s shelves are ready for a refill!

They’ve created an Amazon Wish List ﬁlled with books that will go directly into the hands of children across southwest Iowa. Simply choose a book, and it will be shipped straight to Fireﬂy!

Books they are in most need of:

• Ages 0-3 Children’s Board Books (English & Spanish)

Shop the Wish List here: a.co/04UfcmJ6.

Every book you give helps spark imagination, build early literacy skills and create special moments between children and the people who love them.

For 35 years, Fireﬂy has been a beacon of hope for children and families across southwest Iowa, helping ensure every child has the opportunity to grow, learn and thrive from the very beginning of life.

Through early childhood education, home visiting, public health services, family support programs and community partnerships, Fireﬂy walks alongside families during some of life’s most important moments. They help parents build conﬁdence, connect families to critical resources, support healthy child development and create pathways to opportunity.

Help Firefly make sure the next child who walks through their doors finds a shelf full of stories waiting just for them. For more information about Firefly, please visit firefly.kids.

United Cerebral Palsy puts on Golf Event September 28; Promotes Sponsorship Opportunities

United Cerebral Palsy of Nebraska invites golfers and businesses to join Hit the Links: Drive Against Disabilities on Monday, September 28 at The Players Club. This annual tournament raises vital funds to support local individuals with cerebral palsy and other disabilities.

Now is the perfect time to register your foursome or become an event sponsor. Sponsorships offer valuable community visibility while making a lasting impact. The premier Golf Cart Sponsor opportunity puts your company logo on every golf cart, keeping your brand on the move throughout the day.

Every team and sponsor helps provide programs and resources that empower Nebraska families.

To register a team, explore sponsorship opportunities, or learn more, contact Mel at (402) 502-3572 or mel@ucpnebraska.org.

American Red Cross Partners with Rural Radio Network for Rock ‘N Roll Up Your Sleeves Blood Drive

Join the American Red Cross as they partner with Rural Radio Network to host the Rock ‘N Roll Up Your Sleeves Blood Drive!

There are 38 opportunities to donate between August 3-20 at locations throughout Nebraska. All who come to give will receive a commemorative T-shirt, while supplies last, and a $20 Amazon Gift Card by email. All presenting donors will also be entered for a chance to win two tickets to a University of Nebraska volleyball game.

Make your appointment at redcrossblood.org, using sponsor code RNR2026.

About the American Red Cross:

The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members and their families. The Red Cross is a nonproﬁt organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or CruzRojaAmericana.org, or follow them on social media.

La Fuente Business Center Celebrates Two Years of Serving the Latino Community in Council Bluffs

BeyondAwareness:CarryingDisabilityPride Forward with United Cerebral Palsy

La Fuente Business Center, a nonproﬁt 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to empowering immigrant entrepreneurs and families, is celebrating two years of providing bilingual ﬁnancial education, business training, technical assistance and community support in Council Bluffs.

Since opening its doors in Council Bluffs, Iowa, La Fuente has expanded its mission to address the evolving needs of the Latino community. Following the closure of Centro Latino of Iowa, the organization stepped into a greater leadership role by offering services that promote economic stability, entrepreneurship, and personal well-being.

Today, La Fuente serves 75 program participants and 8 local small businesses, providing all services in both Spanish and English. In addition to business development and ﬁnancial education, the organization offers on-site English as a Second Language (ESL) classes and mental health education, with a special focus on supporting Latina women.

Recent economic changes have placed additional pressure on many immigrant families, especially women with children, limited English proficiency, and little access to financial education. La Fuente helps participants build the skills and confidence needed to make informed financial decisions, strengthen their businesses and improve their long-term economic stability.

“English is a strong barrier for the Latino community to fully participate in entrepreneurship and personal ﬁnance education,” said Maria Baez, Program Manager. “Women are often the ones managing their household budgets, yet they have fewer opportunities to access ﬁnancial knowledge in their own language. Our goal is to remove those barriers by providing education, trusted guidance, and resources that empower families and small business owners.”

La Fuente Business Center operates in Council Bluffs from the ground ﬂoor of Habitat for Humanity Council Bluffs, which has generously provided ofﬁce space since 2024. This partnership has created an accessible community hub where residents can receive education, business assistance, and supportive services in a welcoming environment.

La Fuente’s programs are made possible through the generous support of the Weitz Family Foundation, Iowa West Foundation, and United Way of the Midlands. Their investment helps expand opportunities for low-income, Spanish-speaking families and immigrant entrepreneurs across Southwest Iowa.

As La Fuente Business Center celebrates this milestone, the organization remains committed to helping Latino families and small businesses thrive through education, opportunity, and community partnership.

About La Fuente Business Center

La Fuente Business Center is a 501(c)(3) nonproﬁt organization that provides bilingual ﬁnancial education, business training, technical assistance, ESL instruction, and community-based support to immigrant entrepreneurs and Latino families.

For more information, contact Maria Baez, Program Manager at La Fuente Business Center via email info@lafuentebusinesscenter.org or by phone at (402) 933-4466.

As Disability Pride Month comes to a close, United Cerebral Palsy hopes its message continues to inspire long after July ends. Disability Pride is about recognizing the value, individuality, and contributions of people with disabilities—not just for one month, but every day.

Awareness is where the journey begins, but meaningful inclusion requires action. It grows when we listen, remove barriers, embrace different perspectives, and create opportunities for everyone to fully participate in their communities.

At United Cerebral Palsy of Nebraska, they believe every person deserves A Life Without Limits. Their vision works to advance the independence, productivity, and full citizenship of people with disabilities through an afﬁliate network that has helped millions. They believe that together, we can build communities where everyone is seen, heard, valued, and empowered to thrive because inclusion isn’t a moment—it’s a commitment we make every day.

For more information visit ucpnebraska.org.

HALLINS Kicks Off Labor Day Weekend with Two Unforgettable Days of World-Class Jazz

HALLINS Corporation proudly announces the return of the 14th Annual LOVAM Jazz Festival, a two-day celebration of exceptional live music, culture, and community taking place Sept. 4–5.

The weekend begins with the LOVAM Kickoff Linen Party on Friday, Sept. 4, at 7 p.m. at the Holland Performing Arts Center. This elegant, ticketed event features legendary contemporary jazz group Pieces of a Dream, who’s nearly ﬁve decades of timeless music have made them one of the genre’s most celebrated acts. Guests are invited to enjoy an elevated evening of sophistication, luxury and unforgettable entertainment while dressed in their ﬁnest linen attire.

The celebration continues on Saturday, Sept. 5, with the FREE LOVAM Jazz Festival at Turner Park at Midtown Crossing. Produced by HALLINS Corporation, the festival features chart-topping saxophonists Eric Dariusand Vincent Ingala, delivering an exciting day of worldclass jazz for music lovers of all ages.

Recognized as one of the Midwest’s premier jazz events, the LOVAM Jazz Festival offers something for the entire family, including live performances, a vibrant Vendor Village showcasing small owned businesses, delicious food, community exhibitors, and activities that celebrate the richness of Omaha’s culture.

Now in its 14th year, the LOVAM Jazz Festival continues HALLINS’ mission of cultivating constructive change through art, music, education, and cultural engagement while providing free access to some of the best contemporary jazz artists in the world.

For tickets to the LOVAM Kickoff Linen Party and additional festival information, visit Eventbrite, visit hallinscorp.com and follow HALLINS on social media for the latest updates.

Your wedding day is something you’ve probably been thinking about for most of your young and adult life. Those perceptions of what the day will look like and feel like have crossed your mind many times.

The stress and logistics of planning a wedding, that lives up to your thoughts and dreams, can be crazy and a big undertaking in the midst of everything else going on in your life. Thankfully, local Omaha businesses are here to not only supply services and goods to make this day, but can supply peace of mind so you can enjoy the day to the fullest with your partner.

Every couple wants guests to leave their wedding with more than just a full stomach and sore feet from dancing. Creating memorable experiences has become just as important as selecting the venue, ﬂowers or menu. Interactive entertainment is one of the easiest ways to keep guests engaged throughout the celebration.

Since 2012, FotoFunSpot has helped Omaha-area couples add a fun, personal touch to their weddings with photo and video booth experiences designed for every style of celebration. Whether couples are planning an elegant ballroom reception, a rustic barn wedding or an intimate outdoor ceremony, booths can be customized with photo templates, backdrops and props that complement the overall wedding theme.

FotoFunSpot offers a wide range of photo options to ﬁt your celebration style, including a 360-degree video booth, modern photo

stations and more.

A photo booth also offers something traditional wedding photography can’t always capture like candid moments between family members, old friends and guests who may never make it onto the dance ﬂoor. Throughout the evening, loved ones create spontaneous memories while taking home personalized photo strips as favors they can actually use and keep.

For couples looking for an extra-special keepsake, guest book options allow friends and family to add printed photos alongside handwritten messages, creating a one-of-a-kind wedding album ﬁlled with memories from the guests’ perspective. The fun doesn’t end with the reception, either. Booth experiences are also a popular addition to engagement parties, bridal showers and rehearsal dinners, making FotoFunSpot a memorable part of every stage of the wedding celebration.

When planning a wedding, choosing a venue is one of the most important steps, a place to hold all of your loved ones that help you celebrate one of life’s biggest moments. In Omaha that is where The Players Club comes in.

When considering a wedding venue, couples should choose a venue that feels elegant, welcoming and one that reﬂects the atmosphere

Emily Cheek

PLANNING A WEDDING

they envision for their wedding day.

“At The Players Club of Omaha, we offer stunning golf course views, timeless event spaces, exceptional cuisine and personalized service to create a seamless and memorable wedding experience,” said Lindsay Schmurr, Executive Assistant, at The Players Club Omaha.

Choosing this venue is ﬂexible to your needs and desires. They offer both indoor and outdoor ceremony options and more options for reception spaces for weddings that can hold up to 200 guests. Along with ceremony and reception options they also have customizable menus, bar packages and room layouts.

“This allows every couple to create a celebration that’s uniquely theirs,” said Schmurr.

Planning a wedding can be stressful but you do not have to do it alone with your future spouse. The Players Club of Omaha venue coordinator will work closely with you to ensure that every detail is in place.

“We assist with ﬂoor plans, timelines, catering and venue logistics, while our banquet team delivers exceptional service on the wedding day,” said Schmurr. “By working together with your vendors, we help create a seamless and enjoyable experience for you and your guests.”

Transforming your wedding vision into a ﬂawless, elegant reality requires the right infrastructure. Avery Rents provides the local heritage, elite service and exceptional rental inventory necessary to elevate your celebration.

The most important wedding rentals are usually tents or canopies, tables and chairs, lighting, dance ﬂoors, bars, linens, dinnerware, and climate-control items like heaters or fans. Tents are especially important for outdoor weddings because they provide protection from sun, light wind, and rain, and they often require the most planning and coordination.

In the tent event industry, the entryway or formal “tentrance” of a tent is a spectacular concept that provides attendees a stunning ﬁrst and lasting memory of the wedding aesthetic.

A smart guideline is to ﬁnalize wedding rentals about two to three months before the wedding, but earlier is better for peak season dates. Popular items like tents, chairs, dance ﬂoors, and portable bars can book quickly, so couples marrying in spring, summer, or fall should reserve those items as soon as their date and guest count are set.

If you are planning during peak wedding season, secure the essentials ﬁrst and then adjust the details later. This approach helps ensure availability and gives you more ﬂexibility if your guest list changes or your design evolves.

Outdoor weddings in Nebraska can be beautiful, but the weather can change quickly, so a backup plan is essential. Wind is a particular concern, so couples should choose décor that stays secure, use heavier centerpieces, and work with vendors (such as Avery Rents) who understand how to stabilize tents and outdoor setups.

To create a memorable guest experience while staying prepared, think in layers:

Provide tents for shade, fans, and cold beverages for warm weather, and for colder weather, have tent heaters and sides.

Enjoy a relaxed, exquisite, and unforgettable Nebraska wedding by choosing the right rental partner: Avery Rents.

At the end of the day, your wedding day should be something to remember with your partner, and the supporting family and friends around you.

Your wedding day is about far more than checking boxes or following traditions. It’s about creating a celebration that reﬂects who you are as a couple and the life you’re beginning together. Every decision, from where you gather to celebrate to the people you choose to help bring your vision to life, plays a part in telling your unique story.

When the last song has played and the decorations have been packed away, it won’t be the little details you remember most. It will be the joy of celebrating with the people you love, the promises you made and the memories created along the way. Those are the moments that last a lifetime and begin your next chapter together.

Lindsay Schmurr

Summer is coming to a quick end, making sure that you and your child are prepared for the school year is important. The end of summer marks the beginning of the back-to-school season. This can mean new classrooms, emotions, teachers or the start of a new chapter. No matter what age your child is, ensuring they have the proper support is a must.

From grade school to college, the transition can feel uneasy and you may feel unsure of what is to come for your student. However, Metropolitan Community College (MCC) focuses on making the transition as smooth as possible for your student and helping them ﬁnd their interests.

Beyond helping students adjust to campus life, MCC also provides resources that prepare them for future careers, connecting their interests, strengths and academic pursuits. For example, they can get connected with job shadowing, internships and other career opportunities.

“We partner with faculty, industry partners and campus departments to help students see how the knowledge and skills they gain in the classroom translate to meaningful careers,” said Mervin Vasser, MCC Director of Career Experiences. “Our

services include career advising, career assessments, resume and cover letter reviews, mock interviews and job and internship searches through Handshake, a career platform that connects students with opportunities.”

Vasser also adds that MCC offers employer information sessions, networking events, career fairs and classroom presentations that introduce students to career pathways and industry expectations.

Recognizing the growing role of technology in hiring and career development, MCC is incorporating artiﬁcial intelligence into its career services. This helps with career paths, strengthening application materials such as resumes and developing other skills along the way.

“As new academic programs like Biotechnology continue to grow, MCC Career Experiences is working closely with faculty and industry partners to connect students with experiential learning opportunities,” said Vasser. “These initiatives reﬂect the College’s commitment to integrating emerging technologies with career development; ensuring students are equipped with the knowledge, skills and experiences to succeed in a rapidly changing job market.”

Taking advantage of these services is a great way to get a jump on the future and the endless possible opportunities that come along the way. Having the ﬂexibility to pursue them is important for today’s traditional college students and adult learners

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Mervin Vasser

BACK TO SCHOOL

Metropolitan Community College understands that your student will be balancing a lot, this may be including academics, work, family and other responsibilities that your student has. To support students with busy lives, MCC offers options designed to ﬁt a variety of schedules.

“That’s why we offer flexible learning options designed to meet students where they are,” said Vasser. “Whether someone is seeking a degree, a certificate, new workforce skills or simply wants to take a class for personal or professional growth, MCC provides pathways that fit a variety of schedules and goals.”

For more information about Metropolitan Community College visit mccneb.edu.

Back-to-school is a busy time for families. A clean home can make those busy mornings and evening feel less stressful. New Start Cleaning is a perfect choice to help your family get ready to go back-to-school.

New Start Cleaning’s goal is to help take one thing off your plate and give their clients more time to focus on their families while knowing their home is in good hands. They focus on getting the home clean, fresh, and ready for a new routine by cleaning the areas families use most such as kitchens, bathrooms, bedrooms, and living spaces.

New Start Cleaning is a local, family-owned business that treats every home with care and respect. They take pride in being reliable, paying attention to the little details, and providing consistent service. Whether you are looking for regular house cleaning during the year or a one-time deep clean, their experienced residential house cleaners will transform your space.

For more information on New Start Cleaning visit newstartcleaningllc. com.

If you or your student is looking at universities, Wayne State College might be the perfect ﬁt for you.

Wayne State has a wide range of resources that ensure students are healthy, safe, and supported including peer tutoring, academic and career advising, health and wellness facilities, counseling services, and 100+ clubs and organizations.

This fall, Wayne State will be breaking ground the Brandenburg Student Success Center. This center is designed to create a centralized hub for academic support, career development, ﬁnancial services, and student resources – an all in one accessible, welcoming location.

Wayne State is also here to help you with the more challenging aspects of going to college. If you are worried about managing costs, you should know that 44% of students graduated with no student loan debt. If you are concerned with your career and return on investment, WSC works with you every step of the way to ensure you are career ready.

Wayne State offers one-one one career advising that ensures students will be successful when they graduate. Their Academic and Career success center is excited to help students choose a direction, stay on track, and prepare for what’s next. They also have a marquee Career Scholars program that ensures students are tied directly to their careers during their time in college. The program engages students in an accelerated three-year curriculum with a full year of professional experience by the time they are done.

For more information about WSC visit wsc.edu.

While ﬁnding the right school is important and having a clean home can calm those busy back to school mornings, making sure your child is getting the proper care is a priority. School can bring on many different and new emotions for your child so ensuring they have extra support can set them up for success.

Themis Gomes, CEO, at Behaven Kids share more insight on children’s mental health and how you can support your child through the school year.

“Children’s mental health doesn’t always look like sadness or anxiety. It often appears through behavior changes like irritability, frequent meltdowns, withdrawal, trouble sleeping, headaches, stomachaches or difﬁculty concentrating. These behaviors can be a child’s way of communicating they’re struggling or need more support.

As children return to school, parents should watch for persistent changes such as anxiety about school, physical complaints without a medical cause, changes in sleep or appetite, declining grades, emotional outbursts or loss of interest in activities. If these changes continue or interfere with daily life, it may be time to seek support.

Technology and social media can be both beneﬁcial and challenging. While they help children stay connected, they can also increase exposure to cyberbullying, unrealistic comparisons and inappropriate content. Parents can help by setting healthy screen-time boundaries, encouraging device-free family time, keeping communication open and modeling balanced technology use.

One of the best ways to support your child is through a consistent daily check-in. Spend a few distraction-free minutes asking questions like, “What made you smile today?” or “Was anything difﬁcult?” These conversations help children feel safe sharing their thoughts and emotions.

Most importantly, don’t dismiss your child’s feelings. Comments like “It’s not a big deal” can discourage future communication. Instead, acknowledge their emotions by saying, “I can see this is really hard for you.” Validation doesn’t mean agreeing with every behavior, but it does let your child know they’re heard. Feeling understood builds trust, resilience and encourages children to seek support when they need it!”

For more information about Behaven Kids visit behavenkids.com.

At the end of the day, preparation can help any nerves you and your child may have for the upcoming school year. But there is no reason to go into it alone. Know that there are resources and support all around. Wishing you a stress-free back-to-school season, good luck!

Coco Chairez

Purchasing a home is one of the biggest financial decisions most people will make. The process begins long before touring homes or making an offer. Understanding what you and your family need in a home, along with preparing your finances, is an important first step. Taking the time to establish your priorities and ensure you’re financially ready can help you approach the home-buying process with confidence while reducing unnecessary stress along the way.

One of the most important first steps is understanding your ﬁnances. Reviewing your credit, creating a realistic budget and saving for both a down payment and closing costs can put buyers in a stronger position when they’re ready to purchase. It’s also helpful to set aside savings for the unexpected expenses that often come with moving into a new home.

That is where meeting with a mortgage professional at Lincoln Federal Savings Bank (Equal Housing Lender / Member FDIC) early in the process can make a signiﬁcant difference.

“A pre-qualified mortgage gives buyers conﬁdence and direction before they begin their search,” said William Schriener, VP Mortgage Loan Ofﬁcer of Lincoln Federal Savings Bank.

They help establish a realistic price range, while demonstrating to sellers that a buyer is qualiﬁed and serious. Starting the ﬁnancing conversation early can also uncover any credit or income issues that may need to be addressed before purchasing a home.

As exciting as buying a home can be, it’s important to avoid major ﬁnancial changes after receiving a mortgage pre-qualify.

“One of the biggest mistakes first-time buyers make is changing their financial picture after they’re pre-qualified,” Schriener said.

Buyers should also remember to budget for ongoing homeownership expenses, including property taxes, homeowners insurance and routine maintenance.

At Lincoln Federal Savings Bank, helping individuals and families achieve homeownership is about more than ﬁnancing a house. It’s about providing guidance, answering questions and helping buyers understand every step of the mortgage process.

Buying a new home means ﬁ guring out all of the complexity that ﬁnances bring on. But, there is no need to do it alone. Surie Legge, VP Mortgage Lending of Cobalt Credit Union gives some insight of the steps to take, when you are planning on buying a home.

“The first step is to work with a trusted financial institution and get pre-approved for a mortgage. This helps you understand what you can comfortably afford before you start looking at homes. It’s also important to establish a budget that fits your lifestyle and financial goals. Once you’re preparing to buy, avoid major financial changes, such as changing jobs or financing a vehicle, and if those situations do arise, communicate with your mortgage lender right away.

More Home. Zero PMI.

Surie Legge

William Schriener

BUYING A HOME

Getting pre-approved sets you up for success by giving you a clear understanding of your budget so you can confidently shop within your price range. It also shows sellers that you’re a serious buyer, which can strengthen your offer in a competitive market. And when you find the right home, you’re able to move quickly because much of the financing process has already been initiated.

One of the biggest misconceptions is overestimating how much money is needed for a down payment. Many buyers are surprised to learn there are loan programs available with lower down payment options. At the same time, it’s important not to underestimate closing costs and prepaid expenses like property taxes and homeowner’s insurance. Another common mistake is waiting too long to provide requested documentation, which can delay the closing process.

Start the pre-approval process sooner rather than later. It gives you time to explore different loan programs, compare lenders, review your credit, and understand how much money you’ll need for closing. Be sure to budget for the ongoing costs of homeownership, and don’t be afraid to ask questions. Buying a home is one of the biggest ﬁnancial decisions you’ll make, and having the right guidance can make all the difference.”

When buying a home sometimes you want it to be more personalized to you and your family’s needs. Perhaps you may want to make upgrades in your new home and your kitchen cabinets are a brilliant place to start. Cabinet IQ believes functionality should be one of the biggest considerations when evaluating the cabinetry in a home.

Greg Allen

The kitchen is where most families spend a significant amount of time, so it should be designed to ﬁt your lifestyle and storage needs. Ask yourself whether the layout is efﬁcient and if there is enough cabinet space to accommodate your everyday use. It is incredibly important to consider the age, condition, quality construction and material of your current cabinets.

“Understanding the quality, functionality and condition of the cabinetry can help you make a more informed home-buying decision,” said Greg Allen, Owner of Cabinet IQ.

No matter what you are looking for, Cabinet IQ has you covered to ﬁnd the right kind of cabinets for you and your family. With that being said they are familiar with trends they see amongst their clients.

“Today’s homeowners are looking for a timeless design that balances style with everyday functionality,” said Allen. “Cabinet preferences vary signiﬁcantly from one homeowner to another, depending on the overall look they’re trying to achieve.”

At the end of the day, homeowners want a kitchen that not only looks beautiful but also works for the way they live. The most successful designs combine timeless style with thoughtful storage and organization to create a space that’s both functional and enjoyable to use.

“Do your homework, take your time and most importantly, have fun with the process,” said Allen. “For most homeowners, a kitchen renovation is something they may only do once in their lifetime, so it’s worth investing the time to make sure it’s done right. A kitchen renovation is a big decision with many moving parts, so choose a team you trust to guide you through the process and bring your vision to life.”

At the end of the day, the most important part of the purchasing a home process is making sure that you land in home that works perfectly for you and your family. Do not let this once in a lifetime decision stress you. Let Omaha professionals help you along the way.